Saw it this afternoon. I went in after reading reviews and posts here with an open mind.
Yes, music was cut, some shortened and moved around but it didn't matter.
This movie is absolutely wonderful and, in my opinion, can proudly take its place alongside the movie and two stage productions. It is gorgeously shot. (That scene with Shug in the tub was just jaw dropping on a big screen) Every actor is bringing their A game, in my opinion. I just felt it melded the book, movie and stage productions together beautifully. (I cried for like the last half hour of the film!) I also thought it was quite fitting that they saved the title song for the end. I read somewhere that they use it over the end titles. No, they actually sing it at the gathering.
I can't say I am a big Taraji P. Henson fan but, Lord have mercy, she was INcredible. I did not know that she could sing and dance that good. (I did not see her in ANNIE.) As good as Brooks is in the movie, Henson impressed me more. Just my opinion. Hopefully the Oscars will not overlook her performance.
All and all I loved it. I got tickets for a close friend and I to see it. As he was dropping me off he told me there was a gift in the backseat. Opened once inside and it was the book "Purple Rising: 40 Years of The Color Purple. The Official Behind the scenes book. I had no clue it existed. Just glanced through it and it looks wonderful.
Just give the world Love. - S. Wonder