Raw and unflinching are the best ways to describe Brian Gibson’s 1993 biopic, What’s Love Got to Do With It chronicling the iconic, tumultuous life and strength of musician Tina Turner.
The film charts Tina’s (Angela Bassett) rise to stardom and her relationship with her abusive ex-husband Ike (Laurence Fishburne).
Bassett is nothing short of extraordinary, capturing Tina’s performance persona and deeply emotional complexities, providing her equal parts vulnerability and intensity. Paired with Fishburne’s bone-chilling portrayal of Ike, the film displays the highs and lows of Tina’s life and her resilience in the face of adversity.
The film does not shy away from the devastating effects of domestic violence, showing the physical and emotional abuse Ike inflicted on Tina explicitly. Tina is trapped in a cycle of abuse for years, and the film portrays this effectively.
The toxic dynamic between Tina and Ike, both as a married couple and performing partners, is a stark reminder of the insidious nature of abuse and the stark impact it can have on survivors. Fishburne is scarily convincing, shifting from a charismatic producer to a troubled abusive husband effortlessly.
Tina has been open about the abuse she suffered at this time, writing about it in her autobiography My Life, My Story, but watching it dramatised helps create sympathy from the audience by seeing it portrayed so honestly.
Despite the dark story that remains throughout, What’s Love Got to Do with It is ultimately a story of resilience and redemption. As Tina breaks free of Ike’s control and takes on her solo career, the movie celebrates her strength and determination to reclaim her life and identity.
The film is powerful and emotionally charged, packed with so much meaning beyond Tina’s life. With fearless performance, the movie serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reclaiming one’s power and self-worth. Tina’s journey from darkness to light is a testament to the indomitable of the human spirit and a timeless inspiration for audiences everywhere.
