"Sparkle" commands attention because it's the last movie for Whitney Houston and the first for "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks. The film tells the story of three sisters who want to become the next Supremes over the protestations of their church-going single mom (Houston), a former R&B singer who got burned by the music biz. The film is a makeover of 1976's "Sparkle," which starred "Flashdance" singer Irene Cara. Houston was 13 when it came out, and the film reportedly inspired her so much that she watched it over and over as a teenager and later secured the remake rights. Houston holds her own, although she looks a bit out of it at times. As the insecure ingenue, Sparks, 22, seems a bit tentative at first. But like her character, she gains her footing. As a singer, Sparks shines. If she goes on to enjoy success on the screen, "Sparkle" will be remembered as her first film; otherwise it's destined to be known only as Houston's last role. (Rating: PG-13.) ★★ 1/2 out of four stars
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