In ‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody,’ filmmakers leaned heavily on scenes of landmark performances, including Houston’s beloved rendition of the national anthem at the 1991 Super Bowl.
To play Whitney Houston, actress Naomi Ackie learned every note of the iconic pop singer’s songs.
And yet, the audience doesn’t really hear her sing much.
That is because it’s Houston’s voice that takes center stage in “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” a new biopic that arrives in movie theaters on Dec. 23.
By memorizing every word, every intake of breath, Ms. Ackie’s singing on set—while unheard—aims to give her role an air of authenticity.