A few comments and such...
Curtis would never have let Deena record "Listen." For starters, it's definately far too soul-searching and personal a song. We learn early on that Curtis only cares about music that will sell and make people feel happy or satisfied while driving around. Most of the music that Jimmy and the Dreams record is also pretty shallow without real content. Remember, Curtis doesn't like "message songs" or anything that would put the listener in a different mood or make them think. "Listen" is far too introspective. I get why they had Curtis in the booth but I wish we had seen him walking by the studio and seeing Deena and Wayne laying something down and then going in to see what was up. That way it's like Deena is trying to do her own thing and can also direct all her words to Curtis as well.
I can understand Effie and CC having a father and yet still being on their own. We learn that their mother is dead and if Mr. White was out working all day to provide for the family then the two would be along together. They probably had to be each other's parent as he was out earning money (this gives me the only reason why CC would stay and not try to fight for Effie to stay in the group - when you're dirt poor and get some cash, it can be as powerful as any drug). Also, once you leave the nest, your family dynamic definately changes. I know that if I was home my family would give me all the love and attention I ever could want but I'm not at home. Growing up, going to college, and eventually the "real world" causes you to create a new family for yourself. Sure, Effie and CC had a father who clearly loved them but he wasn't there. He was in Detroit and they were on the road. From the movie, I would assume that CC had been sending Effie money for a while (remember, Curtis does buy her out and Effie even says she blew through half a million dollars in two years). I'm sure he did feel guilty but he had stars and dollar signs in his eyes and she was being a tempermental diva who couldn't sustain. She needed to be kicked out for the better of the group but the way it was handled was wrong.
I wish that "Ain't No Party" had stayed in the film. Dreamgirls is about three girls, not two and a backup girl - three. Lorrell needs that number as it's the only time we ever see her have a moment by herself without Effie and Deena around. It also gives Jimmy more to feed off of going into "I Meant You No Harm." He's clearly doped up a bit and woozy and then has his girlfriend give him the third degree and has to go perform. "Ain't No Party" gives Jimmy a reason to go wild and perform an impromptu rap. He's tired of singin' these same sad songs and needs to let loose from everything. The scene works as is but everyone I know who has seen the movie and not known the score has felt Lorrell needed a moment right there.
Z.
"You're not a kid anymore, Robby. I don't think you'll ever be a kid again, kiddo." - Joanne, Company
