Self Made

Octavia Spencer stars as Madam C.J. Walker, the first female millionaire in the United States. 

Madam Walker began her enterprise by making a balm for black women who had problems with their hair; it proved to be so successful, she later expanded her brand, creating an entire line of beauty products. 

Walker’s story is truly that of a self made success. She accomplished what was thought to be the unthinkable, at a time when women did not even have the right to vote. Her life is an inspiration for multiple generations of women in the United States and around the world.

The film reminded me of the film “Moulin Rouge” in that it uses modern music to bring the audience in to the film. That was a little jarring for me in the first episode, that juxtaposition of a period piece with modern music. Still, I got used to it in Moulin Rouge, I got used to it in this film. 

Brilliant performances by Spencer, Blair Underwood, Garrett Morris, and Tiffany Haddish. 

Be looking for this title at award season time. Now streaming on Netflix, 4 stars.