‘The Color Purple’ Leaves Netflix Soon Despite High Praise

The acclaimed musical film The Color Purple is set to depart Netflix on November 1, 2023, just days away. Adapted from the 2005 Broadway musical, which itself is based on Alice Walker‘s novel, the film has captured the hearts of viewers, achieving an impressive 95% on Rotten Tomatoes’ audience score, alongside an 81% score from critics.

Directed by Blitz Bazawule, this adaptation features a star-studded cast, including Danielle Brooks as Sofia, Fantasia Barrino as Celie, and notable cameos from icons like Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg. The film chronicles the life of Celie from 1910 to 1940, highlighting her journey to independence amid adversity.

Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception

Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its emotional depth and vibrant performances. The film is described as a “crowd-pleasing testament to resilience in the face of trauma,” according to Rotten Tomatoes’ critics consensus. Audience feedback reflects a similar sentiment, with viewers calling it “much more than a remake” and highlighting the engaging musical numbers.

One viewer remarked, “Beautiful movie from beginning to end! Made me cry!” Another stated, “This movie was AWESOME! Fantasia did an outstanding job – very impressed!” Such positive reviews stand in contrast to some critical voices that argue the film struggles with its darker themes. One critic noted that the story is “punishingly bleak,” suggesting the musical elements may not align with the story’s gravity.

Upcoming Changes to Netflix Catalog

With The Color Purple leaving the streaming platform, it joins a list of notable titles being removed. As part of a broader shift, Netflix will see the exit of several high-profile shows and movies, including the 2005 adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Despicable Me, and the Shrek films.

Viewers interested in experiencing The Color Purple should act quickly, as it will soon be unavailable on Netflix. As the platform continues to refresh its catalog, this musical film remains a highlight of the year, drawing attention with its poignant storytelling and powerful performances.