Bessie (2015) – Multicultural Film Festival

Bessie Smith, played by Queen Latifah, was known as the Empress of the Blues. She was the first singer to popularize early jazz songs. Her death at the age of 43 cut short a career that influenced the direction of American music and contributed to the success of African Americans in the performing arts. This movie provides an insight into the struggles Bessie went through and the fame she achieved. (1 hr. 30 min., PG-13)