The unauthorized biopic of Nina Simone continues to make headlines. Directed by Cynthia Mort, Nina has drawn harsh criticism from fans, music critics, and even Simone’s own family over Zoe Saldana’s portrayal of the iconic jazz singer.
The official Twitter account of Simone’s estate recently released a statement following the trailer release of the film, which stated: “Cool story but please take Nina’s name out your mouth. For the rest of your life.”
But not everyone is in disagreement with the casting choice. Queen Latifah and Paula Patton recently came out in support of Saldana.
“I think Zoe Saldana is a great actress, so I am looking forward to it,” Latifah told the Associated Press during the premiere of The Perfect Match. “She is of African descent — I don’t see why she shouldn’t play the role. I just want to see it. Get rid of the hype and let’s go watch a movie.”
Patton, who stars in The Perfect Match opposite Terrence Jenkins, felt that it was horrible to put Saldana through such harsh criticism. “Imagine being in her shoes and enduring that,” she said. “It’s not cool, and it’s not right.”
Adding, “Clearly, someone thought she was perfect for it — she’s an amazing actress, she’s beautiful — and you haven’t even given her a chance and you haven’t seen it yet,” the actress stated. “I think we have to be in a place where we celebrate each other and are kind to one another, and say, ‘There’s alternate versions of a story’. Give her a shot, try to enjoy it and stop judging.”
Nina hits theaters and VOD on April 22.
