[REVIEW] James Brown Biopic 'Get On Up': Chadwick Boseman, Viola Davis Get Moviegoers To Sit On Down In Theaters

Could the new James Brown biopic Get On Up be good enough to garner the film's little-known lead an Oscar?

Chadwick Boseman has already shown the world he can embody sports legends with his portrayal of a young Jackie Robinson in 42, but many wondered if he could pull off the "Godfather of Soul's" signature splits, funky foot shuffling, and completely capture Brown's all-around presence. But there is no doubt Boseman was up to the challenge.

The 32-year-old actor transformed into the icon of soul narrating with the same raspy tone in between scenes to draw audiences inside what exactly went through Brown's mind during pivotal moments in his career and life. Boseman was no longer an actor. Instead he transformed in the musical icon down to his signature yells into the microphone. With minimal training in dance, Boseman still managed to replicate countless splits and re-enacts the late singer's stance, walk, and smile, thanks to his "drill sergeant," choreographer Aakomon "AJ" Jones and his dedication to embodying Brown.

Aside from the film's illustration of Brown's countless highs (hit singles and memorable performances), the film tackles, head on, Brown's struggles through poverty, racism, and physical abuse.

Brown struggled with childhood abandonment after his mother; Susie Brown (played by two-time Tony Award-winner and Oscar-nominee Viola Davis) left him to be raised by his abusive father at a young age. As a teenager, he was arrested several times for petty thievery. Although, the film may leave you laughing, dancing, and even crying, drawing you in-and-out through different eras of the singer's lifetime, you will definitely understand how these events led him to be one of the greatest entertainers of all time.

Never one to let discrimination or disrespect affect his artistry, Brown famously allowed newbie British sensations the Rolling Stones to close out the show at the "T.A.M.I." (Teenage Awards Music International), held in Santa Monica in 1964, a spot typically held for seasoned performers. Brown not only commanded the stage, he also prove to be able to control a crowd even when he didn't have his dancing shoes on. He calmed a Boston audience in the midst of riots all across America after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., and was nearly killed on his way to perform for American soldiers in Vietnam.

The film captures Brown's hunger and strength to stay focused in order to remain and stay as one of the best.

Yes, in order to be and remain on top, the Brown was known for strict work environment and his hefty $20 penalties he handed his band members for missing steps or tardiness, but when his iron fist is set aside the movie demonstrates Brown's work ethic as he establishes "The Baddest Band's On Earth." Clearly, the reason Brown is regaled as one of the 20th century's greatest artists and Get On Up portrays that in James Brown fashion. This could be the very reason why the film is worthy for a few Oscar nods for "Best Film" and "Best Actor."