Months ago I exclaimed, Beyonce as Etta James! OMG, self-conscious actress = disaster. Etta is one of my favorite singers, right up there with Big Mama Thornton, Aretha Franklin, and Billie Holiday. I wondered if Beyonce the actress, too concerned with image and "prettiness," could convey the toughness and soul of Etta. According to director Darnell Martin, Beyonce, "goes to that dark place," and "forgets who she is." I haven't read any reviews, except for this article which is enthusiastic. Hope it's in theaters when I get back to the States. http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/cadillacrecords/