Sparkle is a 2012 American musical film directed by Salim Akil and produced by Debra Martin Chase, Whitney Houston, T.D. Jakes, and Curtis Wallace. The movie stars Jordin Sparks, Houston, Derek Luke, Carmen Ejogo, Tika Sumpter, Omari Hardwick, Mike Epps, and CeeLo Green.
The synopsis of the film centers around Sparkle Anderson (Jordin Sparks), a talented singer-songwriter who dreams of becoming a star. Despite the opposition from her mother Emma (Whitney Houston), who is against the idea of her daughters pursuing music, Sparkle forms a singing group with her two sisters, Delores (Tika Sumpter) and Sister (Carmen Ejogo).
As their talents are discovered by music manager Stix (Derek Luke), the group starts performing at local nightclubs and eventually get the attention of a major record label. However, their rise to fame is met with unexpected challenges including jealousies, family secrets, and the pressure of being in the spotlight.
The film is set in the Motown-era of the late 1960s Detroit and showcases the music, fashion, and culture of the time. The soundtrack features original songs written by R. Kelly, who also executive produced the film, as well as classic Motown hits.
The film also features the final performance of Whitney Houston before her death in February 2012. Sparkle was dedicated to her memory and was released posthumously in August of that year.
