IMDb 6.9 2014 HD

Get On Up

Get On Up

2014
Drama History Music
139 min PG-13 USA
6.8 / 10
6.9 IMDB

A chronicle of James Brown's rise from extreme poverty to become one of the most influential musicians in history.

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Tate Taylor / Cate Hardman / Cleta Elaine Ellington
Starring
Chadwick Boseman / Nelsan Ellis / Dan Aykroyd / Viola Davis / Lennie James / Fred Melamed / Jill Scott / Octavia Spencer

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

electric powerful raw inspiring dynamic complex energetic soulful gritty iconic triumphant challenging

Reviews

I
Isabelle Dubois
Apr 21, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

Chadwick Boseman commands the screen as James Brown in 'Get On Up,' delivering a performance that is both fierce and tender. The film artfully depicts the soul singer's ascent from dire poverty to unprecedented musical influence. The direction…

A
Arthur Finch
Apr 21, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

While 'Get On Up' boasts a captivating central performance from Chadwick Boseman, the film itself feels somewhat uneven. It chronicles James Brown's journey from destitution to musical legend with considerable flair, and the performances from the supporting cast,…

P
Penelope Davies
Apr 21, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

This is more than just a biopic; 'Get On Up' is a visceral experience. Chadwick Boseman is nothing short of spectacular, embodying James Brown with astonishing physicality and vocal prowess. The film’s direction pulses with the rhythm of…

M
Marcus Thorne
Apr 21, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

'Get On Up' attempts to capture the seismic impact of James Brown, and largely succeeds thanks to Chadwick Boseman's magnetic turn. The film navigates the complexities of his life, from profound poverty to global superstardom, with a kinetic…

E
Eleanor Vance
Apr 21, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

Chadwick Boseman delivers a powerhouse performance in 'Get On Up,' a film that charts the tumultuous rise of James Brown. The biopic doesn't shy away from the grit and hardship of Brown's early life, portraying his journey from…

FAQs

Chadwick Boseman's portrayal is central to the film's success. He is widely credited with embodying James Brown's unique charisma, vocal stylings, and electrifying stage presence. Boseman's performance captures not only the public persona but also hints at the internal drive and complexities of the man, making for a powerful depiction.