Few could take on the role of legendary singer Aretha Franklin without looking foolish or utilizing voice overs. So it makes sense that Jennifer Hudson, a legendary singer in her own right, would take on the role in the upcoming biopic Respect.
Though we’ve known about the casting for some time, this is the first time we’ve gotten a look at Hudson as Franklin, and it’s just as impressive as you’d think. This first look keeps it simple, focusing on Aretha’s iconic song and Hudson, a singular backlit figure. The film itself, directed by Liesl Tommy and written by Tracey Scott Wilson, follows the rise of Franklin’s career from a child singing in her father’s church choir to her international stardom.
Also starring Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess and more, the film comes to theaters on October 9.
