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What do you do when the spotlight of fame is suddenly focused on you in all its glitter? That
is the predicament of Billie Frank (Mariah Carey) who is abandoned by her alcoholic mother in an orphanage, but whose traumatic childhood experiences do not stunt her singing
talent. Years later, when trying to break through to success in the Manhattan disco scene with her friends, she catches the attention of Dice (Max Beesley), a powerful and
influential DJ, who dreams of becoming a film composer. With Dice's guidance, Billie rises to stardom. At the same time, love blossoms between Dice and his protégée. But as
Billie's star glows with great success, their love and creativity are put to a test. Billie is on an emotional hunt for her missing mother. Can she have both love and fame?
Can there be love in the midst of success?
The rags-to-riches plot may be old and worn-out, but Mariah Carey in this dynamic feature
debut gives it glitter with her vibrant vocal talent. A strong element of its appeal is its potent soundtrack with lots of new numbers written by the star herself. However,
the poignancy and power of her singing voice cannot make up for the shoddy characterization, pedestrian dialogue and poor direction. There are brief attempts at comic relief
especially in a scene where an effeminate Russian gets "wacky" while filming Billie's first movie video. At times, laughter is elicited from the viewers in scenes where it is
least expected.
Glitter may
have its dross but definitely has its gold. The movie gives a permissive view of pre-marital sex which cannot be acceptable, no matter who are involved. On the positive side,
it tells us that we can dream dreams but must have the courage to make them come true through hard work, faith and determination. We must know what we want in life and strive
to attain it. The film also shows how one can triumph over the blinding illusion of prominence.
(Date reviewed: October 23, 2001)
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