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The Color Purple 2023

This is a decades-spanning story of a woman's journey to independence, based on the novel and Broadway musical. Facing numerous hardships, Celie ultimately discovers extraordinary strength and hope through the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

This is a decades-spanning story of a woman's journey to independence, based on the novel and Broadway musical. Facing numerous hardships, Celie ultimately discovers extraordinary strength and hope through the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

Does The Color Purple have end credit scenes?

No!

The Color Purple does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Ratings and Reviews for The Color Purple

See how The Color Purple is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where The Color Purple stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

78

In overall terms, The Color Purple distinguishes itself through its commanding performances and rich audiovisual design while contending with narrative unevenness. Reviewers repeatedly cite Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, and Taraji P. Henson for their compelling portrayals, and note the film’s vivid production design and cinematography. However, the integration of musical numbers into the plot is sometimes perceived as disruptive, and pacing irregularities undercut engagement. These factors combine to deliver a film that is emotionally potent and visually striking, yet not entirely cohesive in its dramatic flow.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for The Color Purple

75
Echo Score

Art & Craft

Art and craft in The Color Purple are marked by vibrant cinematography and meticulous production design, yet occasionally constrained by its stage-bound origins. Critics highlight the inventive camera transitions into musical sequences and the immersive period detail, while also pointing to a lack of eccentric flair in some choreography. Overall, the visual effort is strong but somewhat conventional in execution.

90
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character depth and emotion, the film delivers consistently strong work from its leads. Most observers praise Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, and Taraji P. Henson for their nuanced performances and the palpable chemistry among the principal trio. While some supporting arcs receive less development, the central portrayals anchor the narrative with authentic feeling, providing a sustained emotional core.

60
Echo Score

Story & Flow

In terms of story and flow, reactions are mixed regarding narrative coherence and pacing. Several critics observe that musical interludes can act as narrative speed bumps, and some find the adaptation too faithful to earlier versions. Conversely, others appreciate the sentimental through-line and thematic resonance. Ultimately, the film offers memorable scenes but does not always maintain consistent momentum across its runtime.

80
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

Regarding sensory experience, the movie excels in musical staging, sound design, and visual style. Observers note the engaging score, dynamic choreography, and rich period atmosphere—from Spanish moss–draped oaks to evocative costumes. The musical numbers often generate heightened energy, though a few sequences are described as tonally jarring. Overall, the sensory elements are immersive and contribute significantly to the film’s impact.

70
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

On the question of rewatch value, the film’s standout performances and striking production design encourage repeat viewings. Many note that the emotional highs and visual flourishes can resonate on subsequent watches. However, uneven pacing and structural disruptions by certain musical numbers may diminish the impulse to revisit the entire work. As a result, the film offers selective replay appeal rather than uniform replayability.

Metacritic

72

Metascore

6.9

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

81%

TOMATOMETER

review

95%

User Score

IMDb

6.8 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

71

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.6

From 258 fan ratings

Movie Insider

5.00/5

From 2 fan ratings

Take the Ultimate The Color Purple Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of The Color Purple with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


The Color Purple Quiz: Test your knowledge about the themes, characters, and events of The Color Purple (2023).

What is the relationship between Celie and Nettie?

Awards & Nominations for The Color Purple

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Discover all the awards and nominations received by The Color Purple, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how The Color Purple and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.


77th British Academy Film Awards 2024

Nomination

Best Actress in a Leading Role

Fantasia Barrino
Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Best Actress in a Supporting Role

Danielle Brooks

29th Critics' Choice Awards 2024

Nomination

Best Picture

Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Best Supporting Actress

Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Best Acting Ensemble

Nomination

Best Costume Design

Nomination

Best Hair and Makeup

30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards 2024

Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role

Danielle Brooks
Halle Bailey
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Halle Bailey
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Fantasia Barrino
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Jon Batiste
Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Ciara O'Callaghan
Colman Domingo
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Colman Domingo
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Louis Gossett Jr.
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Louis Gossett Jr.
Corey Hawkins
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Corey Hawkins
Taraji P. Henson
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Taraji P. Henson
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Phylicia Pearl Mpasi
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

39th Artios Awards 2024

Nomination

Feature Big Budget – Drama

81st Golden Globe Awards 2024

Nomination

Best Performance in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy (Actress)

Fantasia Barrino
Danielle Brooks
Nomination

Best Supporting Performance in a Motion Picture (Supporting Actress)

Danielle Brooks

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for The Color Purple

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Read the complete plot summary of The Color Purple, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


In the scorching heat of 1909 Georgia, two sisters, Celie (Phylicia Pearl Mpasi) and Nettie (Halle Bailey), cherish playful moments during a carefree afternoon, engaging in clapping games while the somber ambiance of their small town’s Sunday church service looms nearby. However, this brief joy is shadowed by dire realities. Celie, who is expecting her second child from her abusive father Alfonso (Deon Cole), faces the heartbreaking truth that he will take her newborn away, as he did with her first daughter, Olivia (Tiffany Elle Burgess). While working in a local shop, Celie’s heart aches as she spies the woman caring for her daughter, a constant reminder of lost opportunities and unfulfilled dreams.

As the sisters endure their struggles together, they find solace in each other’s companionship, a sentiment echoed in their mantra to “Keep It Movin’.” Yet, their bond is tested when Nettie becomes the object of affection for Albert “Mister” Johnson (Colman Domingo), who is determined to marry her. Despite Alfonso’s initial hesitation, he ultimately forces Celie into a marriage that plunges her deeper into a life filled with despair and servitude.

In her domineering new home, Celie is subjected to a grueling existence as Mister’s servant and caretaker for his sons, often facing brutal punishment for any perceived disobedience. Meanwhile, Nettie yearns for freedom and returns to Celie when their father’s tyranny becomes unbearable. At first, she is dismissed by Mister, who disregards her ambitions for education and independence. However, the sisters’ indomitable connection proves resilient, enabling them to endure even the harshest tribulations.

As shadows loom ever larger in their lives, Nettie must flee from Mister after he attempts to assault her, intensifying the need for self-defense. Choosing survival over safety, she must abandon Celie but promises to stay in touch, continually affirming the strength of their sibling bond even amidst separation and adversity.

The story shifts to 1917, where Fantasia Barrino reprises her powerful role as Celie, still trapped under Mister’s thumb but deeply involved in the chaotic romance between Harpo (Corey Hawkins) and Sofia (Danielle Brooks), who stands her ground with fiery tenacity against her husband. As Celie grows closer to Sofia, who reveals her difficulties with Harpo’s impotence to assert himself, it becomes clear that marital dynamics are intriguingly complex.

As time passes, a juke joint that Harpo builds becomes a stage for the arrival of the spirited Shug Avery (Taraji P. Henson), whose dramatic reappearance rattles the lives of everyone around her. As Celie cares for Shug, the two women develop an unexpected camaraderie that helps Celie find her voice against Mister’s oppression. This newfound friendship flourishes amidst an impending crescendo as Shug prepares to embark on a journey of self-discovery, leaving Celie yearning for stability in an unstable world.

As fate continuously weaves its intricate web through their lives, Celie’s happiness is disrupted once again when she receives a letter from her long-lost sister, filled with revelations of Nettie’s newfound life and resolve in Africa. Nettie has taken Celie’s children and integrated them into a local tribe’s community, showcasing the deeply interwoven lives they lead.

In a shocking turn of events, the narrative weaves in more turmoil when Sofia is jailed after a confrontation with the mayor’s wife, leading to six years of incarceration. As Easter Sunday unfolds, with reunions and family tensions climaxing around the dinner table hosted by Mister, Celie’s suppressed frustrations explode, leading to a confrontation that finally liberates her from the chains of her old life. In a decisive act of defiance, she declares her intent to leave Mister and create a future without the torment she has endured.

As Celie rekindles her existence with Shug in Memphis, she channels her creativity through writing and rekindling bonds with her family while establishing a thriving pants shop supported by newfound friendships. As the chapters of her life unfold, she discovers both the joys and the heartaches that accompany personal growth and healing.

As she sings triumphantly, “I’m Here,” her path converges with the celebration of independence and love, culminating in a breathtaking Fourth of July where her long-lost sister Nettie (Ciara) returns, along with her children, celebrating a reunion steeped in the gratitude and understanding of life’s journey through “The Color Purple.”

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for The Color Purple

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from The Color Purple. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer

Official Trailer 2

Official Trailer 3

Finding Your Voice Featurette

Creating The Color Purple: A Bold New Take on the Beloved Classic

Hell Yes! The Iconic Characters of The Color Purple

“A Bold New Take” Featurette

Blitz Bazawule

Experience "Lifeline" By Alicia Keys

The Music of The Color Purple | The #DolbyInstitute Podcast

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


1900safrican american protagonistblack americanbased on a broadway musical based on a filmfamily relationshipssister sister relationshiphusband wife relationshipwife abuseviolencedomestic violenceabusive partnerdomestic abuseafrican americanboyfriendfriendship20th century1910syear 1909year 1916color in titlemistressbased on broadway musicalsingingsongcoming of agefarmteenage girlamericannovelgirlpregnancymother son relationshipmother daughter relationshipsingerbanjobanjo playergeorgia the statememphis tennesseehusband hits his wifeman hits a womanwoman hits a manrainshotgundancerdancingsitting in a treebeachfather son relationship1930s

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