"Get on Up" brings James Brown's struggles to the big screen
The Godfather of Soul is making an encore.
The story of iconic funk singer James Brown is being brought to life with the new biopic, "Get on Up," from "The Help" director Tate Taylor.
The filmmaker reunited with his "Help" stars Viola Davis and Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer for the new musical drama, which traces Brown's life -- starting with being raised by his aunt, played by Spencer, in the 1930s.
Brown manages to overcome many hurdles and becomes one of the most prolific recording artists of the 20th century. Some of his best known classics include 1965's "I Got You (I Feel Good)," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and 1985's "Living in America."
The performer, known for his funky stage presence and signature dance moves, died from heart failure at 73 in 2006.
Taylor and the stars from his new film recently gathered at New York's historic Apollo Theater in Harlem (where Brown had performed on numerous occasions) to celebrate the singer's life and legacy.
"He experienced real pain and poverty. This has everything that you could want in a story in it," said Chadwick Boseman, who portrays the adult Brown.
Boseman also recently portrayed another historic figure in the black community, baseball great Jakie Robinson, in the sports drama, "42."
"Of course, it's daunting," Boseman said when asked about playing the two major figures. He says that he was able to play the roles because the families of both Brown and Robinson have given him their thumbs up and blessings.
"Get on Up" was produced by Mick Jagger, who joined Boseman and other stars from the film for the Apollo premiere.
Watch the video above to see Jagger and the stars together on the red carpet.
"Get on Up" opens in theaters on Friday.