Cadillac Records

Synopsis

Cadillac Records released in 2008 is a musical biographical drama film that follows the rise of Chess Records and its recording artists, including Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Chuck Berry, and Etta James. The movie chronicles the struggles and successes of these iconic artists in the racially divided 1950s and 1960s America. Led by visionary label founder Leonard Chess, the record company becomes a groundbreaking hub for rhythm and blues music, contributing to the evolution of rock and roll. The film delves into the personal lives, music, and impact of these legendary musicians, showcasing their talents, hardships, and the transformative power of music in their lives.

Cast

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  Adrien Brody

  Leonard Chess

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  Jeffrey Wright

  Muddy Waters

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  Gabrielle Union

  Geneva Wade

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  Columbus Short

  Little Walter

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  Cedric the Entertainer

  Willie Dixon

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  Emmanuelle Chriqui

  Revetta Chess

Reviews

Cadillac Records has garnered mixed reviews from critics. While some praise the film for its engaging storytelling, stellar performances, and authentic portrayal of the music industry's evolution, others criticize its pacing and lack of depth in character development. IMDb rates the movie 7.0/10 based on audience reviews, highlighting the strong musical performances and period setting. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a 66% rating, with critics appreciating the film's music sequences but finding the narrative somewhat disjointed. Metacritic offers a rating of 65/100, indicating a generally favorable response tempered by critiques of script execution. Overall, Cadillac Records offers a soulful journey through the history of music, blending drama and emotion with toe-tapping rhythm and blues.