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Poster for Bessie

Movie

Bessie

Survival began with a song

2015 · 1h 47m

Directed by Dee Rees

6.4

TMDB audience score
133 votes, out of 10

Trailer Where to watch

Synopsis

The story of legendary blues performer, Bessie Smith, who rose to fame during the 1920s and '30s.

Where to watch

Official options in the United States:

Subscription

  • HBO Max Amazon Channel
  • HBO Max

Rent

  • Amazon Video
  • Apple TV Store
  • Google Play Movies
  • YouTube
  • Fandango At Home

Buy

  • Amazon Video
  • Apple TV Store
  • Google Play Movies
  • YouTube
  • Fandango At Home

All options on TMDB

Where-to-watch data is provided by JustWatch through TMDB. It differs by country and changes over time, so confirm with the service before paying. PlotNest does not host or stream anything.

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Trailer

Play trailer: Bessie: Trailer (HBO Films)

The preview image comes from YouTube. The player loads only after you press play.

Cast

  • Queen Latifah
    Bessie Smith

  • Mo'Nique
    Ma Rainey

  • Mike Epps
    Richard

  • Tika Sumpter
    Lucille

  • Michael Kenneth Williams
    Jack Gee

  • Charles S. Dutton
    William 'Pa' Rainey

  • Bryan Greenberg
    John Hammond

  • Oliver Platt
    Carl Van Vechten

  • Khandi Alexander
    Viola

  • Tory Kittles
    Clarence

  • Kamryn Johnson
    Young Bessie

  • Rikki McKinney
    Chorus Guy

  • Alan T. Coleman
    Stagehand

  • Clay Chappell
    '81' Theatre Owner

  • Sharan C. Mansfield
    Miss Taylor

  • Neko Parham
    Rehearsal Director

  • Onira Tarés
    Chorus Girl

  • Jhoni Davis
    Chorus Girl