TLC Movie Chronicles Triumph And Tragedy

The TLC movie is set to debut on VH1 tonight. The biopic, titled CrazySexyCool, chronicles the triumph and tragedy experienced by one of the most successful R&B groups of the 90s.

The film portrays a decade in the lives of Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas. As the biopic begins, the three women are preparing to sign a record deal with LaFace Records.

The group’s debut album, Ooooooohhh … On the TLC Tip, went triple platinum. Their next album, CrazySexyCool, sold more than 23 million copies, securing their worldwide success.

All three women were unique, as evidenced in their performance and style. T-Boz was tough and cool, Chili was sexy and smooth, and Left Eye was the crazy rapper. Together, the women became one of the most talented and successful “girl groups” ever created.

As reported by Business Week, the group’s success was overshadowed by increasing debt and bad management decisions. The film’s narrator explains that “the awards kept coming, but the checks didn’t.” By 1995, the group was forced to file bankruptcy.

In addition to the financial woes, the women struggled with alcoholism, illness, and abuse. Despite their personal setbacks, the women remained strong together. In a period of 10 years, the unique and talented women sold more than 65 million records.

The TLC movie concludes in 2002, with the tragic death of Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. As reported by Slate, the film ends with an appearance by the real Watkins and Thomas, who perform their new single.

CrazySexyCool has received mixed reviews. However, the critics agree that the music, costumes, and performances, are solid. The movie’s storyline is described as somewhat “haphazard, but “enjoyable.”

The TLC movie eventually led to a deal with Epic Records. Watkins and Thomas just finished recording their anniversary album titled 20.

[Image via Wikimedia]