Whitney Houstonmay have been known best for her range of octaves and beautiful voice, but she worked in quite a few films as well. Her roles were tailored to her natural essence, making transitioning into the guild of acting an easy one. She brought her intense and lighthearted emotion to the screen and was able to shift from one scene to the next with a pure conviction of exactly what needed to be delivered. Her personality on screen was infectious, and her smile could light up the entire set and world. Every sentiment she portrayed showed exactly the character she was — a prideful, kind, loving, and strong woman who could accomplish anything, especially her role inThe Bodyguard.
When thinking about the transition from singing to acting, one must remember that during a concert, the singer controls the stage. While on set, the actor is more or less guided by what the director sees fit. However, Whitney Houston seemingly needed zero guidance while performing her role inThe Bodyguard.She commanded every scene she was in with an innate confidence. Her vivacity shines through her words and enlivens the character. And though Houston’s nickname among her fellow singers and fans was “The Voice,” she absolutely earned this same title for her multiple acting roles.
Not only did Houston play a lead role inThe Bodyguard, but she also orchestratedan incredible soundtrackfor the film titledThe Bodyguard Soundtrackwhich was, and still is, one of the best-selling albums of all time. Now if that doesn’t let you know how monumental her performance was, what can?
Popular songs included on the album are some of her most iconic, includingI Will Always Love You,I Have Nothing,andRun to You.When Houston performs these selected songs in the film, there’s just no way you’ll have dry eyes, especially withI Will Always Love You.She’s Rolling Stone’stop two singers of all time for a reason, and inThe Bodyguard,having a story behind the words of her songs enhances the effect of her vocals. It is incredible.
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With a budget of $25 million,The Bodyguardrose to great success, earning $411 million at the box office. Though actor Kevin Costner proposed a sequel to the film, which would have included Princess Diana, the idea was scrapped. Interestingly enough, the proposal was sent to Princess Diana just one day before her passing in 1997, as the original movie was released in 1992. However, as of 2021, a remake with a Latin twist on it has been in the works. Though there is not much information aboutThe Bodyguardremake, the film will be written by Matthew Lopez and released by Warner Bros.
Houston’s Role as Rachel Is Similar to Her Life Off-Screen
Houston’s role as Rachel Marron mimicked her life outside the character, making the transition into film seemingly effortless for Houston. When Rachel, an acclaimed actress, and actor, just like Houston,had her home invadedby a trespasser, her team called on the help of an elite bodyguard. Though it is not confirmed if Houston truly had an invader or bodyguard off-screen, most of the film parallels her career and success as an off-screen singer and actress.
Frank Seeks to Protect Rachel at All Costs
Though Rachel had a team of security, Frank Farmer, played by Kevin Costner, was called to protect the Academy Award nominee, Rachel. He may not have been the biggest, but his instincts were strong and his intention clear: protect Rachel at all costs, even if that meant harm to him.
Rachel was so involved with her singing that she hadn’t realized someone had broken into her home and bedroom. However, Frank wasn’t going to let that go unknown, as he demanded she know or else he would not work to safeguard Rachel.
Frank and Rachel Fall for Each Other
Though the work was professional, Rachel and Frank were essentially attached at the hip. And as her shadow, the two were bound to grow close. Not only was Frank a man of dignity, but a respectful one as well. So when Rachel asked him to dance toI Will Always Love Youon a night out, he knew he had to say yes — but what made him say yes?
As the pair continue their time together before Rachel’s appearance at the Academy Awards to accept her award for Best Actress, Frank falls deeper, as does Rachel. He allows her into his guarded heart, despite his serious demeanor. As Rachel would say, “You’re a very hard one to figure out Frank Farmer. A bodyguard must know very little peace.”
Frank and Rachel eventually give into their growing feelings and bloom into a relationship that crosses the lineof bodyguard and client. And though Rachel tells Frank, “I’ve never felt this safe before. No one could get by you.” He chooses to halt their love in order to put the job first, remembering that she indeed was in danger.
Rachel’s Entire Family Almost Dies
After Rachel and her family are escorted to Frank’s winter home for safety, she’s set to make her Academy Award appearance. But not before trouble arises. The men who put Rachel in danger followed the family and Rachel’s son nearly died as a result. The phone lines are cut, and a boat blows up, but there are tracks in the snow and Frank knows exactly what to do.
He keeps watch all day and night until someone strikes. And when Rachel’s sister makes a move on Frank, he finally realizes who is at fault for the terror. Rachel’s own sister set her up to die. Not only did her jealousy almost lead to her nephew’s demise, her hatred grew so large for Rachel that her whole family was at death’s hands.
Rachel Wins the Academy Award
Afraid of not being there the way he hadn’t been when President Ronald Reagan was assassinated, as he was off duty on that particular day, Frank acutely focuses on Rachel and the safety of her and her family. No bullet would ever pass byThe Bodyguardagain.
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Thinking thatthe stalker will attack once morewhile Rachel steps to the stage, Frank gives her a cross pendant to press if she feels in danger. Presenting the award without harm, Rachel is still set to take the stage later on in the night to accept her Oscar. This time, however, would prove to be different. Emotions run high and instincts run tense.
Winning the Oscar for her performance inQueen of the Night, Rachel gracefully walks to the podium. Lights blind the truth, but Frank knows what is to happen next. He runs to guard Rachel as the attack is about to happen. This time, Frank would have it right. No one would be harmed under his protection. Bullets fly and bodies lay down. Frank takes a shot to the arm, but Rachel is safe.
Houston’s Legacy in Film
ThoughThe Bodyguardwas Houston’s most successful film, she played various roles in movies to follow. There was the 1995 filmWaiting to Exhale,where Houston starred alongside Angela Bassett as a woman seeking comfort for herself and a safe, healthy relationship. Houston starred again in the 1996 filmThe Preacher’s Wifewith Denzel Washington. And most notably, the 2012 filmSparkle,again highlighted Houston’s singing career as a mother guiding her three daughters towards success as a Motown group.
While Whitney Houston passed in 2012, her legacy as a songstress and actress will go down in history forever. Her voice carried with it a story unheard, as she broke through note after note to bring forth some of the best vocals known to man. Not only does Houston live on through her music, but through her films as well. Her talent was one for the books, and the effect she had on the entertainment industrywill never be forgotten.
