HBO’s latest original film pulls back the curtain on one of the most intriguing times in music history. Set during the 1920’s and 30’s, Bessie tells the story of blues singer Bessie Smith (Queen Latifah) and captures the star’s tumultuous rise to fame as well as her relationships with “The Mother of Blues” (Mo’Nique) and record producer John Hammond (Bryan Greenberg).
At the NY premiere of the film, which took place this past week, we had the chance to speak with the cast about venturing back in time to the Jazz Age and the relationship between personal struggles and creativity.
Check out what they had to say in the video above and be sure to tune into HBO tonight when Bessie premieres at 8pm EST.