Trailer for Nina Simone biopic Starring Zoe Saldana, is Basked in Controversy

Zoe Saldana’s casting as the legendary Nina Simone in the biopic Nina – that aims to capture the late singer and activist’s somewhat turbulent relationship with her former caretaker and manager Clifton Henderson, played by David Oyelowo, who happens to be one of the producers of the film has caused quite a stir for obvious reasons.

Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone

Saldana looks nothing like Nina Simone – and while that can prove to be a bit distracting for fans who have revered the outspoken vocalist since she belted out the anthem Mississippi Goddamn – what’s even more jaw-dropping is the effort it took to get Saldana’s lighter hue to match Simone’s darker complexion.
The actress seemingly employed the assistance of seasoned makeup artists who were more than ambitious in the quest to make Saldana look as dark as she possibly can without crossing the line of reason.
Aside, from the physical challenges there was also the issue with production, stemming from a battery of problems that kept the fragile project in limbo.
Bringing the story of Nina Simone to the big screen has always been the artistic dream for multiple actresses and entertainers of color. Mary J. Blige came close back in 2010 when she was ready to dive into the complex role of a lifetime. But scheduling conflicts forced her out of the running.
Leaving the door wide open for Saldana to walk through against the wishes of Simone’s own daughter Lisa Simone Kelly who was reportedly outraged at the casting and even more disturbed at how the film portrays her mother’s career in the later stages of her life – by unfairly exaggerating Henderson’s influence.
There is no doubt that Nina which is set to be released on April 22nd will spark strong reactions regardless of how well Saldana navigates these choppy waters. But if there is one thing Hollywood is known for it has to be the ability to feed into the fantasy of reality.
Click here to view the trailer.