Prince (May 25, 1985) Purple Rain Movie Review - Post-Bulletin

A local Minnesota newspaper publishes a three-star review of Prince’s hit film Purple Rain, praising his musical performances while noting the film’s stiff dramatic elements

PUBLICATION 

Publication: Post-Bulletin

Date: Saturday, May 25, 1985

Country: United States

Section / Pages: Page 42 Title:

PURPLE RAIN (R)

PUBLICATION Publication: Post-Bulletin Date: Saturday, May 25, 1985 Country: United States Section / Pages: Page 42 Title: PURPLE RAIN (R)

THE STORY

The review describes Purple Rain as a semi-autobiographical musical melodrama in which Prince “sparkles” while performing his songs. It highlights the story of a young singer’s tumultuous home life and love affair with a beautiful vocalist (Apollonia Kotero). While criticizing the backstage drama as “stiff, mean-spirited and awkward,” the reviewer praises Prince’s music, specifically mentioning the hits “When Doves Cry,” “Darling Nikki,” and the title song. The film receives ★★★ (3 stars) and notes profanity and brief nudity. It was playing at the Starlight Drive-In on Hwy. 218 South.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This review was published almost a year after the film’s theatrical release (July 1984), likely for a re-release or drive-in summer showing in 1985. It reflects the typical mixed critical response to Purple Rain — strong praise for the music and Prince’s star power, but criticism of the acting and storyline. The Post-Bulletin serves Rochester, Minnesota, not far from Prince’s hometown.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

 Event: Movie review of Purple Rain Era: Purple Rain Era (1985) Tone: Mixed — enthusiastic about the music, critical of the drama Photography: None (text-only clipping) Audience: Local moviegoers in southeastern Minnesota

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

 A classic 1980s drive-in theater movie listing and review. It captures the public’s fascination with Prince as both a musician and film star, while showing how local newspapers balanced hype with honest critique.

RELATED MATERIAL

• Prince (May 24, 1984) Purple Rain Movie Announcement - St. Cloud Times

• Prince (May 24, 1986) Under the Cherry Moon Movie Announcement - St. Cloud Times

• Apollonia 6 Artist Profile

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