Tinseltown is beginning to show initial symptoms of soul-music fever.
”Hollywood Shuffle” director Robert Townsend`s ”The Five Heartbeats”
chronicles the exploits of a singing group reminiscent of the Dells.
Another film about rhythm and blues is heading for movie houses this summer, only this time the group in question has a brogue. Set in Ireland,
”The Commitments” concerns a fictitious soul-music revue that becomes a hometown hit. Unlike many movies, where the music is dubbed in after filming, ”The Commitments” features footage of live performances.
The film marks the auspicious debut of Andrew Strong. The 16-year-old singer portrays Deco, the Commitments` intense lead vocalist. Strong`s husky vocals recall Joe Cocker and Simply Red`s Mick Hucknall, and the film may be a starmaker vehicle for the singer.
The movie is produced by Alan Parker, whose projects include ”Fame” and ”The Wall.” It is scheduled to open in August.
