Get On Up

The film opens in 1993, showcasing James Brown as he walks through a dimly lit hallway. Surrounded by the echoes of an adoring audience chanting his name, he reflects on significant people who shaped his life.

In 1988, in Augusta, Georgia, James discovers that a private bathroom in his strip mall has been used without his permission. During a confrontation with the trespasser, he surprisingly chooses to forgive him, but an accidental shotgun incident leads to police involvement.

As the story progresses to the 1960s, James and his band perform in Vietnam, demonstrating solidarity with black troops. Their performance is highly praised, marking a significant moment in James's career.

Flashing back to 1939, we see James's difficult upbringing in the woods by his financially struggling parents, Susie and Joe Brown. His early aspirations in music lead him to sing with The Famous Flames, initiated by Bobby Byrd, who helps him after his release from prison.

After moving in with the Byrd family, James solidifies his role as the lead singer of Bobby's group, The Famous Flames. Together, they begin making a name for themselves in the music industry.

In 1964, during The T.A.M.I. Show, manager Ben Bart makes a controversial choice for The Rolling Stones to close the show instead of The Flames. Nevertheless, James and his band steal the spotlight, quipping to the Stones, 'Welcome to America.'

James's childhood is turbulent after his mother Susie leaves his abusive father, Joe, and he is placed under the care of Aunt Honey, who runs a brothel. Despite these hardships, he finds solace in church and the joy of music.

At 17, a decision to steal a suit leads James to a five-to-thirteen-year prison sentence. While incarcerated, he witnesses a performance that ignites his passion for music, bonding him further with Bobby after an injury during a riot.

In the 1950s, The Famous Flames land a significant deal with King Records. Their first single, 'Please, Please, Please,' resonates well, leading to initial skepticism from executive Syd Nathan, which is quickly overshadowed by James's extraordinary vocals.

As tensions rise related to the band's dynamics, James performs at the famed Apollo Theater, thrilling the audience. After the concert, he learns of a woman claiming to be his mother, stirring up emotional memories from his youth.

Amidst personal struggles, James has a son named Teddy with his first wife, Velma, before their divorce. His later marriage to Dee-Dee reveals cracks when James reacts violently during a holiday gathering.

In 1968, James records the iconic song 'Say It Loud - I'm Black and I'm Proud,' attempting to connect with the African American community. The tragic assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. triggers powerful feelings, influencing his performances.

With the death of Ben, tensions arise within the group, especially between James and Bobby, who considers pursuing a solo career. Their dramatic confrontation highlights the strain in their long-time partnership.

At a pivotal moment during a performance at the Apollo, Susie reappears, seeking to mend their fractured relationship after years apart. This encounter forces James to confront his past and the emotional turmoil surrounding it.

In 1973, James receives devastating news about Teddy's tragic car accident. This event haunts him, leading to drug use that causes erratic behavior and an eventual arrest, further complicating his life.

Fast forward to 1993, where James reunites with Bobby, offering him VIP tickets to his upcoming show. The film culminates in a powerful moment as he steps onto the stage, receiving heartfelt applause while delivering an emotional rendition of 'Try Me (I Need You)'.