I reluctantly went to see this film with my cousin. This is definitely not some contrived or forced. Written & Directed  by Darnell Martin it really capture all the vital elements needed to tell a real story. The stars of this film nailed it. This film has it all: music, emotional turmoil, substance abuse, racial discrimination, and the love. Columbus Short was a shocker. I really respect him as an actor, he played his role to bone. He brought Little Walter to life and his ability to evoke an emotional response from me let me know he had skills--that's not an easy thing to do. Jeffery Wright played legendary blues artist Muddy Waters. Muddy is a complicated man and Wright did a magnificent job. Beyonce Knowles played Etta James... I must admit I didn't think Knowles could do it. I must give her props for her growth as an actress. She did it great job. Check this movie out. It is the movie Dreamgirls wanted to be.