January 23, 2014
By Edward Rice, III
LAWT Contributing Writer
It’s been more than 20 years since the theatrical release of Robert Townsend’s The Five Heartbeats. Townsend’s beloved film about the rise and fall of a 60’s singing group has remained popular with audiences over the years and has become a cult classic. Now to the delight of many fans on January 21st Fox Home Entertainment finally released The Five Heartbeats on a new remastered blu-ray disc.
In honor of the blu-ray release, Fox hosted a special panel and screening of the film Thursday, January 16 in Beverly Hills that included many of the original actors from the movie. Duck (Robert Townsend), J.T. (Leon), Choir Boy (Tico Wells) and many others were all on hand to reminisce and discuss the impact and importance of the film. Several of the actors shared anecdotes about the camaraderie that developed amongst the cast during the filming of the Five Heartbeats and that still continues today. Most notably the entire panel shared experiences with devout fans they encountered over the years, which has steadily increased their love and appreciation for the film.
After the panel concluded, the screening began and the audience was captivated once again with the tale of the small town singers who make it big. Audience members could be heard quoting their favorite lines from the film and singing along to fan favorites, “Nothing But Love,” “Nights Like This” and “A Heart Is A House for Love.”
The Five Heartbeats is an American classic that will keep movie and music lovers entertained for many years to come.