This Easter weekend will be filled with iconic church hats, stirring verses, and of course, lots of good music. Which makes the perfect time to tap into films singing praise to the spirits on high. Whether it’s in the pulpit or in the convent, these movies have captured the spirit of the season through their collection of gospel singing and praise
Whether you find yourself in the pew or quietly reflecting about your connection to a higher power, these five films are just what you need for your spirit to soar.
The Fighting Temptations (2003)
City slick executive Darrin Hill (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.) must form a gospel choir in his Southern hometown to collect his inheritance. It’s a mission that doesn’t just transform the choir but also Darrin’s heart.
Why We Love It: On-screen, Gooding is paired with none other than Beyoncé, whose fierce vocals are a high note in this ragtag group of heavenly harmonists.
Joyful Noise (2012)
Vi Rose Hill, the newly appointed choir director of a Georgia-based church who plays by the book. But she’ll have to accept a new path — and a new sound, with the help of fellow churchgoer G.G. Sparrow, to win the annual choir competition.
Why We Love It: The cast! Queen Latifah plays Vi, and Dolly Parton is G.G. They are joined by the lyrically gifted Keke Palmer and Broadway great Jeremy Jordan.
Praise This (2023)
A young woman named Sam (played by Chloe Bailey) reluctantly travels to Atlanta, only to find personal salvation when she joins a gospel praise team preparing for a national competition.
Why We Love It: This musical-movie showcases a side of spirituality not often experienced outside the church doors.
Sister Act (1-3)
Deloris Wilson may have been hiding in that convent, but her love of music helped those nuns find a more harmonious connection to God.
Why We Love It: Whoopi Goldberg created a character so memorable that Sister Mary Clarence returned to help teens in Sister Act 2 (1993), and is rumored to be in a third Sister Act, currently in development.
The Clark Sisters (2020)
This Lifetime biopic tells the story of the legendary gospel The Clark Sisters, who rose to fame under the firm guidance of their mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, portrayed by Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. Christina Bell, Kierra Sheard, Sheléa Frazier, Raven Goodwin, and Angela Birchett also star.
Why We Love It: Based on a true story, this heartfelt movie unveils the triumphs, examines the struggles and emphasizes the bonds of sisterhood.