Andrew Whiteside

Watch: The United States vs. Billie Holliday

Andra Day and Kevin Hanchard in THE UNITED STATES VS. BILLIE HOLIDAY from Paramount Pictures. Photo Credit: Takashi Seida.

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Based on a book this is a somewhat fictional telling of Billie Holiday’s life in the 1940s. In it, she is targeted by the government in a war on drugs and to stop her from performing her controversial song about lynching called Strange Fruit

Acting

Andra Day as Holiday gives a mesmerising and Oscar worthy performance and is ably supported by a well-polished cast.  

9 out of 10 for acting. 

Plot/Script

This is a fascinating, emotional and challenging story that is nicely crafted and filled with memorable characters. 

8 out of 10 for story 

Cinematography

Every scene in the movie is beautifully shot and constructed and supported by great editing. There is never a dull moment in it. 

8 out of 10 for cinematography 

Set/Costumes  

Simply sumptuous costuming mixed with impeccably detailed sets, props and vehicles bring this film to life.  

8 out of 10 for sets and costumes 

Entertainment 

A gripping mix of drama and intrigue and a story that will challenge you emotionally, this film is superb.

9 out of 10 for entertainment value 

Average 

Adding all those scores means The United States vs. Billie Holiday gets an average of 8.4 out of ten

THE UNITED STATES VS. BILLIE HOLIDAY

Starring: Andra Day, Trevante Rhodes, Natasha Lyonne, Garrett Hedlund

Directed by: Lee Daniels     

Duration: 130 minutes

In New Zealand Cinemas 22 April 2021

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