The Bodyguard: Whitney Houston's Moment Under the Miami Sun
Categories: Film/Video
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So let's take a look back at a bit of film history with Houston's acting debut in The Bodyguard. The film, written by Lawrence Kasdan (Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Empire Strikes Back), was originally meant to be starring vehicle for Diana Ross. But it wouldn't be until Kevin Costner and Houston came on to the project that the movie would see its release.
Now, nobody is going to argue that The Bodyguard is the best film ever made. In fact, it's far from it. Houston's acting was, well, over the top and downright campy, and earned her a Razzie nomination for Worst Actress (one of six nominations for the film). Luckily, it had two redeeming qualities: a stellar soundtrack, which included hits like "I Have Nothing," "I'm Every Woman," and "I Will Always Love You"; and scenic Miami Beach in a supporting role.
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| The Miami Beach shoreline as seen in The Bodyguard. |
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| The Fontainebleau Hotel. |
An hour into the movie, Houston's character, Rachel, travels to Miami for an AIDS benefit concert at the landmark hotel. There are sweeping views of Miami Beach's shoreline and the hotel itself, which at the time was called the Fontainebleau Hilton.
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| Whitney Houston's character, Rachel, singing at Tropigala (present day LIV). |
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| The Fontainebleau Hotel's penthouse suite. |
Even Bal Harbour gets a name drop when Rachel escapes the constant surveillance of Frank (a.k.a the bodyguard) for a shopping getaway.
Jeff Soffer, owner and CEO of the landmark hotel, released a statement shortly after the news of Houston's death, stating, "We are deeply saddened to learn of Whitney Houston's passing and send our sincere sympathies to her family and fans around the world. Fontainebleau is forever grateful to the legendary icon for allowing us to play a small part in her unforgettable legacy."
The hotel also (conveniently) reminds us in its statement that Houston intended to launch her 2009's comeback I Look to You from the hotel. Those plans never materialized. Maybe it was for the best, because we are left with a great moment in Miami cinema history starring Houston at the height of her fame.
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Location Info
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Fontainebleau Miami Beach
4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL
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