Charlie Boseman inhabits James Brown so well in Get on Up, you could easily think the Godfather of Soul himself had emerged from the grave to jitter through this biopic of his life.

Unfortunately, clunky exposition and appallingly lazy Zack Morris-esque asides to camera move the action along with the subtlety of a sledgehammer.

Tate Taylor deserves commendation for his eye for period detail along with an ability to create truly visceral on-screen music performances in which Boseman shines.

The clichéd screenplay artfully illustrates the relationship between Brown and sideman Bobby Byrd, yet happily glosses over his domestic abuse in favour of a dazzling stage persona.

Whilst issues with exposition and pacing threaten to deflate Get on Up, captivating performances and electrifying music set-pieces manage to pump up the funk. Boseman jives so well he may just be in with a chance for the Golden Statue yet.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Chadwick Boseman, Dan Aykroyd, Nelsan Ellis

DIRECTOR: Tate Taylor

WRITERS: Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth

SYNOPSIS: Through a series of flashbacks we are shown the genesis of James Brown from impoverished country boy to the slick Godfather of Soul who brought funk to the world.