The Color Purple (1985) Review in 2025
The Color Purple is a powerful and emotional drama film set in the early 20th century, following the life of Celie, a young black woman struggling to find her place in a society dominated by men.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and some violence. However, it is a great choice for older teenagers and adults who can appreciate its powerful message and emotional depth.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys powerful dramas with strong female protagonists. It's a great choice for streaming or watching in theaters, but be prepared for some emotional intensity.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and tells the story of Celie, who is forced into marriage and faces abuse and mistreatment from her husband and society. However, with the help of her sister Nettie and her friend Shug, Celie finds the strength to stand up for herself and fight for her rights.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is powerful and emotional, following the life of Celie as she struggles to find her place in a society dominated by men. The film tackles themes of abuse, racism, and sexism, and provides a powerful message about the importance of female empowerment.
acting9.00/10
The acting in the film is superb, with Whoopi Goldberg delivering a standout performance as Celie. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Danny Glover and Oprah Winfrey delivering memorable performances.
characters9.00/10
The characters in the film are well-developed and complex, with Celie being a particularly strong and relatable protagonist. The supporting characters, including Shug and Nettie, add depth and nuance to the story.
direction8.00/10
The direction by Steven Spielberg is solid, but sometimes feels a bit heavy-handed. However, the film's emotional impact is undeniable, and the direction helps to bring the story to life.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the harsh realities of life in the early 20th century. The use of color and lighting is particularly effective in conveying the emotions of the characters.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Color Purple is a powerful and emotional film that tackles tough themes with sensitivity and nuance. The performances are superb, and the direction is solid. The film's message about female empowerment is inspiring and timely.
Cons
The film's pacing can feel a bit slow at times, and some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I am your sister, and I am your friend. And I am here to help you."
"The color purple is the color of creativity, of wisdom, of spirituality. It is the color of the divine feminine."
"You think the world is against you, but it ain't. It's just that you're against yourself."
