The Secret Life of Bees Movie Review & Give Away

Photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures

It's been a while since I read Sue Monk Kidd's novel The Secret Life of Bees. It's the story of a young girl and her closest companion who are on the run from a tyrannical father, the law and their own bad memories. They find shelter in the home of three wise beekeeping sisters.

While reading the book, I cast some of my favorite movie stars to be the faces of the characters. I can safely say that Queen Latifah never entered my head. And Jennifer Hudson? Back then, I'd never heard of her. Alicia Keyes? Who knew she could act? As a matter of fact, doesn't anyone else think it's strange that most of the primary cast in a non-musical film is made up of women famous for their singing, not their acting?

Although there were a few pretty scenes and an amazing soundtrack (see above, duh), I was disappointed. While the movie followed the basic storyline of the book, it was sanitized for your protection. I'm not sure whether major characters were skimmed over in the interests of time or due to the limits of the stars. I suspect however, that most of the story's meat hit the wastepaper basket in an effort to make a "nice" movie. What do they call them? A "feel good" movie.

I believe I would have liked this film better if the director had chosen to embrace the talent of the beautiful Sophie Okonedo. It was a shame that such a brilliant actress was lost in a film filled with countless close ups of glamorous Alicia Keyes and repetitive flashbacks to the opening scene.

So, would I recommend this movie? Sure. It was nice. Would I encourage you to spend big bucks to see it in the theater? Nah. This one is definitely a Rent It Instead kind of film.

To read more about this film, other reviews, or to see the trailer, click here.

Now for the Give Away:
If you would like to win a copy of the novel, an essential body kit from Burt's Bees, and a $10 Blockbuster gift card, click here. Contest Starts Monday October 27th. A winner will be announced the following Saturday. Shhhh! To qualify for an extra bonus prize, tell me in your comment if you will see the Secret Life of Bees Movie. If you will, then tell me if you will be seeing it in a theater or renting it when it comes out on video. Good Luck!