The Temptations (TV 1998)

Biography of the singers who formed the hit Motown muisical act, The Temptations.

Director:

Allan Arkush

Writers:

Robert Johnson (teleplay), Kevin Arkadie (teleplay)

Stars:

Charles Malik Whitfield, D.B. Woodside, Terron Brooks

Nominated for 1 Golden Globe. Another 4 wins & 13 nominations.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Charles Malik Whitfield	...	Otis Williams
D.B. Woodside	...	Melvin Franklin
Terron Brooks	...	Eddie Kendricks
Christian Payton	...	Paul Williams
Leon	...	David Ruffin
Alan Rosenberg	...	Shelly Berger
Tina Lifford	...	Haze
Jenifer Lewis	...	Mama Rose
Gina Ravera	...	Josephine
Obba Babatundé	...	Berry Gordy
Erik Michael Tristan	...	Smokey Robinson
J. August Richards	...	Richard Street
Harold Surratt	...	Edgar
Charles Ley	...	Dennis Edwards
Vanessa Bell Calloway	...	Johnnie Mae Matthews

Storyline

The true story of The Temptations, the Soul vocal group of the 1960s, as seen from the viewpoint of the last surviving member, Otis Williams. Beginning from their humble origins in the late 50s and continuing through the 90s and the deaths of the other 4 members.

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Plot Keywords:

singer | motown | 1960s | wheelchair | record producer | 

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Taglines:

Their sound made them famous. Their struggle made them legends.

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Genres:

Drama | Music

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

1 November 1998 (USA)

Also Known As:

A Temptations

Filming Locations:

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Box Office

Budget:

$8,000,000 (estimated)

Company Credits

Production Co:

De Passe Entertainment, Hallmark Entertainment

Technical Specs

Runtime:

150 min

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

Otis Williams' ex-wife Josephine, Melvin Franklin's mother Rose, and David Ruffin's family, filed suit against Williams, Motown, De Passe Entertainment, Hallmark Entertainment, and NBC for use of their likenesses in the film, defamation of character, and emotional distress. The plaintiffs claimed that they and/or their relatives and certain events were portrayed inaccurately. The judges ruled in favor of the defendants. The plaintiffs appealed but the original ruling was upheld. Otis Williams later stated that while his book was the source material for the film, he did not have control over the making of the film.

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Goofs

When Eddie and Paul are singing "Stay" and Eddie starts singing "Oh won't" in one shot his hand is on the microphone. Then it cuts to another shot for "you stay" and his hand is not on the microphone.

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Quotes

Otis Williams: No, no. That ain't you on "Cloud Nine" now that's Dennis' voice!

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Connections

Featured in The 56th Annual Golden Globe Awards (1999)

User Reviews

fantastic representation of the history of the temptations

This movie was great. It told th story of the temptations in a very realistic and comprehensive way. The lives of one of the original Motown legend was wonderfully depicted in this movie. The five members (Paul Williams, Otis Williams , Eddie Kendricks, David Ruffin, and bassist Melvin Blue Franklin lived remarkable lives. Fighting through the segregated southern stats and minimal opportunities, they fought to achieve greatness. In addition to the fantastic acting in this film, viewers can also appreciate th wonderful music made by the temptations, Smokie Robinson, and Barry Gordy. This movie will give you a memorable experience and will leave you wanting more.