Words Aaron Potter

BAFTA-winning rising star Naomi Ackie, of Master Of None and Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker fame, steps into the role of a lifetime with uncanny ease for an all-new biopic based on the life of the legendary Whitney Houston. A voice of a generation, the film tracks Houston’s entire musical journey from relative obscurity growing up in New Jersey all the way to her global stardom and eventual struggles with fame.

Penned by the same screenwriter behind biographical box-office smash Bohemian Rhapsody, could Anthony McCarten have another hit on his hands? The ensemble cast would suggest so as Tamara Tunie and Clarke Peters take the roles of Houston’s parents, Black Lightning’s Nafessa Williams plays close friend and confident Robyn Crawford, Ashton Sanders portrays fellow-singer and husband Bobby Brown, and Stanley Tucci takes on the role of Clive Davis ­– Whitney’s first record producer who also serves as a producer on the film.

Expect to be toe-tapping your way through the late eighties onwards in this story of a true cultural icon. Featuring the titular track as well as How Will I Know, I Will Always Love You, and many more Houston hits in the soundtrack, it’s the ultimate celebration of Whitney Houston’s life, legacy, and music.

Whitney Onscreen

The Bodyguard

In her first film role, Houston stars alongside the dashing Kevin Costner in a classic tearjerker. Despite being panned by contemporary critics, the soundtrack was Houston’s greatest ever hit and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.

The Preacher’s Wife

Both at the peak of their commercial power, Houston and Denzel Washington team up in a comedy-drama about an angel who comes to a church family’s aid. Houston was paid $10 million to star – the highest ever for a black actress at the time.

Sparkle

Centred on three singing sisters moving through the music industry in the 1950s, Sparkle marks Whitney Houston’s fifth and final film role. It released sixth months following her death and was dedicated to her memory.