Voice of a generation on the big screen: 6 films highlighting the talent of Whitney Houston

On February 11, 2025, it will be 13 years since the death of Whitney Houston. She appeared in only five films, each of which became an event. Her first film, "The Bodyguard," grossed over $400 million at the box office, making back ten times its budget.

And one of the songs from the film, "I Will Always Love You," became the best-selling female solo single in history. Let's recall all the roles of the great singer in feature films – from the capricious star who fell in love with her protector to the strict mother of aspiring R&B performers.
Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You

"The Bodyguard"

Director: Mick Jackson

Release Year: 1992

Main Cast: Whitney Houston, Kevin Costner, Garry Kemp, Bill Cobbs

Plot

Frank Farmer is a former Secret Service agent, now a professional bodyguard. His new client is Rachel Marron, a global pop star receiving threats from a mysterious admirer.

Frank is a man of strict rules: no unnecessary moves, no emotions. Rachel is the complete opposite: vibrant, impulsive, and confident that her fame will protect her better than any bodyguard. Their initial meetings are a clash of worlds: he tries to limit her freedom, she tries to push him out of his comfort zone. The closer they get, the harder it becomes for Frank to remain just a bodyguard.
A young beautiful dark-skinned woman with short dark hair, close-up
Whitney Houston in 'The Bodyguard'
"The Bodyguard" is a mix of an intense thriller and melodrama with a pinch of humor. It features chases, concerts, awkward moments, and of course, the famous song "I Will Always Love You," written specifically for this film.

The movie received mixed reviews. On RottenTomatoes, its critic rating is only 38%, described as "a tasteless melodramatic hackwork with rare moments of tension." Meanwhile, the audience rating on the same "Tomatoes" is almost twice as high at 64%. Globally, "The Bodyguard" grossed $410 million (with a budget of $40 million). Do you consider "The Bodyguard" a cult film or an overrated melodrama?

Why Watch It

  • Houston's acting debut
  • Musical score
  • Emotional storyline

Awards and Nominations

  • 1993: Nominations for the Academy Awards for Best Song ("I Have Nothing" and "Run to You")
  • 1993: MTV Movie Award win for Best Song ("I Will Always Love You")

"Waiting to Exhale"

Director: Forest Whitaker

Release Year: 1995

Main Cast: Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, Lela Rochon

Plot

We follow four African American friends. Smart, successful, beautiful – but, as it often happens, their personal lives aren't so smooth. Each of them is searching for her own formula for happiness, but fate loves to add unexpected ingredients to the mix – new relationships, old grudges, or sudden life turns that make you wonder: "Where's that moment when you can just exhale?"

Bernadine, Robin, Gloria, and Savannah not only share joys and sorrows with each other but also learn to find a balance between romance, self-respect, and societal expectations. Conversations about men, of course, will happen, but topics about careers, children, dreams are equally important. And about how to properly throw the past out the door (sometimes literally).
Four dark-skinned women sitting on the floor by the sofa and laughing
A scene from the movie 'Waiting to Exhale'
There is laughter, tears, and moments when you want to exclaim: "Yes, I've been there too!" And if after watching "Waiting to Exhale" you suddenly feel like calling your best friend to discuss everything under the sun – then the movie hit the mark.

Why You Should Watch

  • A deep exploration of female friendship and self-discovery
  • Acting performances
  • Soundtrack featuring Whitney Houston's hits

Awards and Nominations

  • 1996: NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Motion Picture
  • 1996: MTV Movie Award nomination for Best Breakthrough Performance (Lela Rochon)

"The Preacher's Wife"

Director: Penny Marshall

Release Year: 1996

Main Cast: Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston, Courtney B. Vance, Gregory Hines

Plot

The protagonist of "The Preacher's Wife," Henry Biggs, is going through tough times: his small church is threatened with closure, parishioners are losing faith, and his family life with Julia has lost its spark. In moments of despair, even the strongest need support from above – and that's when the charming angel Dudley appears at the door. As the Bible says, "Ask, and it shall be given to you."

Dudley is charming, smiling, and looks like a guy from a fashion magazine. While he helps Henry sort out the problems, his charm does not go unnoticed by Julia. The preacher faces a new concern – not only saving the church but also protecting his family's happiness from an unexpected rival... who, by the way, is immortal.
A dark-skinned family - mother, father, and son, dressed in outerwear, talking to each other next to a large figure of Santa Claus
A scene from the movie 'The Preacher's Wife'

Why You Should Watch

  • charismatic performances by Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston
  • heartfelt soundtrack with powerful vocal numbers
  • touching story with elements of fantasy and comedy

Awards and Nominations

  • 1997: Oscar nomination for Best Music, Original Musical or Comedy Score
  • 1996: Epiphany Prize for the Most Inspiring Movie of the Year

"Cinderella"

Director: Robert Iscove

Release Year: 1997

Main Cast: Brandy Norwood, Whitney Houston, Paolo Montalban, Jason Alexander

Plot

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Cinderella, and let's just say her life wasn't the best. While her stepmother and stepsisters enjoyed life, she cleaned, washed, and scrubbed – essentially preparing for a successful career as a maid with no chance of promotion. But when a ball was announced in the kingdom, Cinderella finally had some excitement on the horizon. However, getting there without a dress and a carriage was no easy task.

Fortunately, her Fairy Godmother (played by Whitney Houston, who initially aimed for the role of Cinderella but decided at 34 to make way for a young actress) appears in her life. With a flick of the magic wand, Cinderella gets a gown, a carriage, and even a chance to shine on the dance floor. However, magic has its rules: it only lasts until midnight.
Collage: on the left, a slender dark-skinned woman with small curls in a long gold dress; on the right, a close-up of her
Whitney Houston in 'Cinderella'
In this vibrant, musical version of "Cinderella," you'll enjoy songs, dances, and a reminder that even the most cherished dreams come true if you have a bit of faith and a fairy with great taste.

Why You Should Watch:

  • Innovative approach to a classic story
  • Memorable musical numbers and vibrant costumes
  • Produced by Whitney Houston

Awards and Nominations:

  • 1998: Saturn Award Nomination ("Best Television Presentation")
  • 1998: Primetime Emmy Award for "Outstanding Art Direction for a Variety or Music Program"

"Sparkle"

Director: Salim Akil

Release Year: 2012

Main Cast: Jordin Sparks, Whitney Houston, Carmen Ejogo

Plot

Detroit, 1960s. The Motown label, destined to change the American music industry, is at its peak and attracts young talents. Three sisters decide to conquer the stage.

Sparkle, the youngest, writes amazing songs but is unsure if she's ready to become a star. Being a singer is not just about voice and passion, it's about having the courage to step out of the shadows. Her older sisters are ready to storm the musical Olympus, but Sparkle needs to find her place: behind the scenes or in the spotlight. Moreover, their conservative mother (played by Whitney) and the harsh rules of show business constantly throw obstacles in their way.
A dark-skinned woman in a beige suit snaps her fingers on both hands and smiles widely
Scene from the movie 'Sparkle'

Why You Should Watch:

  • Whitney Houston's final role
  • Rich musical accompaniment reflecting the spirit of the 1960s
  • Immersion in the era of the Motown label

Awards and Nominations:

  • 2013: Nominated for Black Reel Award for Best Song ("Celebrate") performed by Jordin Sparks and Whitney Houston
  • 2013: Nominated for BET Awards in the category "Best Movie"

"Whitney"

Director: Kevin Macdonald

Release Year: 2018

Plot

Whitney Houston's life is a true drama with a powerful soundtrack. The documentary "Whitney" traces her journey from a humble church choir girl to a superstar whose hits were known by everyone.

This film portrays Whitney as a person who genuinely loved music but struggled to find harmony in life. What challenges were hidden behind her perfect image? What is it like to be a superstar while battling personal issues? There are no straightforward answers, but there are many moments that provoke thought.
A young dark-skinned woman with curls sitting on the steps at the entrance of a private jet
Scene from the film 'Whitney'
If you remember Whitney only for hits like "I Will Always Love You," this film will add new dimensions to her image. Kevin Macdonald honestly presents her story—without unnecessary pomp, but with respect for her talent.

Why Watch

  • Rare archival footage and interviews with Whitney Houston's close ones
  • An honest look at the life of a superstar without a glossy veneer
  • Comprehensive insight into the price of fame
Whitney Houston's acting career was as tragically short as her life. Yet, these five films provide much to ponder: could she have become one of the greatest actresses of her generation if she had focused on cinema?