FIGHTING TEMPTATIONS (OST) (Music)

So you just watched the latest action flick, loved the movie and ran to buy the soundtrack. You slip it into the stereo, only to be disappointed again. Rarely does a soundtrack offer good representation of the movie. So when an album comes out that embodies the essence of the movie, fans sit up and take notice.

After one listen to the soundtrack for the popular comedy, The Fighting Temptations, it's obvious that Sony Music Entertainment has done their research and wants to please their audience. Replicating the high gospel energy exhibited in the film, The Fighting Temptations is a rousing, dynamic soundtrack featuring the best songs of the film.

Destiny Child's own Beyonce Knowles stars in the movie, along with Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr., and also takes the leading role on many of the songs highlighted on the soundtrack. First glance of Beyonce in the movie reveals a sensual jazz club singer as she sings "Fever," a classic standard that shows off her multi-octave talent. Although the star is featured on multiple songs, she neither overpowers the film or the repertoire. Each song seems a perfect fit, without creating an unrealistic picture (after all, the film is about her character Lilly, not about Beyonce herself).

Just as the film evolves, so does the soundtrack. Sprinkled throughout the R&B renditions you'll encounter some good, old-fashioned gospel. Whether it's the high energy praise of Shirley Caesar's "The Stone," Beyonce's a cappella captivation in "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" or the barbershop style of The O'Jays' "Loves Me Like a Rock," The Fighting Temptations will have you raising your hands.

If one had to pick one song in summary of the entire soundtrack -- it could definitely be said that "He Still Loves Me" epitomizes The Fighting Temptations. Beyonce and Walter Williams, Sr. (of The O'Jays) combine elements of modern R&B with traditional gospel that results in a spiritual song for today. Upbeat, positive and brimming with life, "He Still Loves Me" is symbolic of both the soundtrack and movie.

You loved the movie, and now you can enjoy what made it so special each time you turn on your stereo. The Fighting Temptations will touch you emotionally and spiritually. . . just as it did on the big screen.