Movie Review: The High Note

The musicThe High Note was absolutely wonderful, and some of the original songs were a sheer delight. I wouldn’t be surprised if a couple of the songs were to end up instant radio hits. One big turn off for the music is Grace has one big hit that fans love, and the movie hits it hard. Perhaps a little too hard as the song in a variety of variations is played countless times throughout the film. We understand from the beginning that the song is pivotal to the storyline, however it on repeat so many times became a bit much.

I will always think of Dakota Johnson as “the 50 Shades of Grey girl”, and don’t know if I will ever get passed that. In 50 Shades of Grey, I did not like her as an actress at all, I just didn’t think her performance was all that great (I know, I know – agree to disagree). As Johnson has transitioned into other roles I have just struggled with her and The High Note was no different. I am not sure if it was her acting, the writing, or a combination of both that I just didn’t care for. One thing that bothered me was Johnson’s character experienced some serious successes when pursuing her passion to become a producer. However, her excitement wasn’t communicated. Her performance fell flat at times, but overall it did not ruin the movie.

While we know Tracee Ellis Ross for her acting roles, I was excited to see her transform into a character that is similar to what her mother’s (Diana Ross) real-life career was like – which was really a huge draw for me when it came to me wanting to watch The High Note. The best part Ross actually sings her own songs, which really got her away from the typical roles we are used to seeing her in. Tracee Ellis Ross shined in the role of Grace Davis and her singing voice much like her mother\’s absolutely blew me away.

The High Note is headed to your living room this week on digital on-demand. It’s a lighthearted movie that will keep you entertained throughout the entire movie. With amazing singers, a love story that will absolutely melt your heart, The High Note is the perfect movie for your next girls\’ night. My friends and I will be watching it from the comfort of our own homes, while on a Zoom call with each other. 

Set in the dazzling world of the LA music scene comes the story of Grace Davis (Tracee Ellis Ross), a superstar whose talent, and ego, have reached unbelievable heights, and Maggie (Dakota Johnson), her overworked personal assistant. While stuck running errands, Maggie still aspires to her childhood dream of becoming a music producer. When Grace’s manager (Ice Cube) presents her with a choice that could alter the course of her career, Maggie and Grace come up with a plan that could change their lives forever.

The film is directed by Nisha Ganatra (“Late Night”) from a script by Flora Greeson. It is produced by Working Title Films’ Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner. The film’s executive producers are Nathan Kelly and Alexandra Loewy.