The United States vs. Billie Holiday

About 'The United States vs. Billie Holiday'

'The United States vs. Billie Holiday' is a biographical drama released in 2021. The film is based on the book 'Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs' by Johann Hari. The compelling narrative follows the iconic jazz singer Billie Holiday, focusing on her career, struggles with addiction, and the relentless pursuit of her by the Federal Bureau of Narcotics.

Making / Production

The movie is directed by Lee Daniels with a screenplay by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Suzan-Lori Parks. It was produced by Lee Daniels Entertainment, Roth/Kirschenbaum Films and New Slate Ventures. The distribution was handled by Hulu.

Actors

• Andra Day as Billie Holiday - She delivers an outstanding performance, displaying Holiday's vulnerability and tenacity with consummate skill.
• Trevante Rhodes as Jimmy Fletcher - He plays a Federal Agent tasked with infiltrating Holiday's circle. Rhodes portrays different shades of his character impressively.
• Garrett Hedlund as Harry J. Anslinger - Hedlund plays the role of the head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics. His portrayal of the antagonist is chilling and dramatic.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Andra Day underwent a physical transformation for the role, losing 39 pounds and taking up smoking.
• This film marks Lee Daniels' return to directing after a hiatus of several years.

Awards

The film scored various nominations and awards. Notably, Andra Day won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama, making her the second Black woman to win in this category.

Quotes

• "I can't be no one else but Billie Holiday."
• "Singing it don't make it no less true."
• "No more apologizing for being me."

Music and Soundtrack

• The film features an original song "Tigress & Tweed," performed by Andra Day.
• Classic Billie Holiday songs like "All of Me," "Ain't Nobody's Business If I Do," and "Strange Fruit" are included in the soundtrack.