Watch The Bobby DeBarge Story

The Bobby DeBarge Story is a 2019 musical drama film that chronicles the life and career of Bobby DeBarge. He was a talented musician who was the lead singer of the soul and R&B band, Switch. The movie stars Romeo Ballantine as Bobby DeBarge, Big Boi as his father, and Matt Borlenghi as his manager. The story begins in Detroit in the late 1960s. Bobby, along with his siblings and father, are part of a musical family. They form a group called The DeBarges and perform at local clubs. Bobby's father is controlling and physically abusive, leading Bobby to find solace in drugs and alcohol.

As Bobby grows older, he forms Switch with his brother and two friends. They quickly gain a following and are signed to a record deal. Their music is a mix of R&B and funk, and they become known for their dance moves as well. However, Bobby's drug addiction becomes a problem, and he starts missing shows and being unreliable.

In the midst of Switch's success, Bobby falls in love with a woman named Teri. They have an on-and-off relationship, and Bobby struggles to balance his addiction with his love for her. Teri gives birth to their son, but their relationship falls apart due to Bobby's drug use.

The movie shows the ups and downs of Switch's career, as well as Bobby's personal life. It highlights the effect that addiction has on a person and those around them. There are also moments of joy and triumph, such as when the band performs at the Motown 25th anniversary concert.

Throughout the movie, there is a theme of family. Bobby's siblings and mother are supportive of his music career, but his father is controlling and abusive. Bobby struggles to break free from his father's grasp and make it on his own. The relationship between Bobby and his siblings is also explored, with some siblings supporting him and others becoming jealous of his success.

The Bobby DeBarge Story features a soundtrack of Switch's music, as well as some original songs. The performances are impressive, with Ballantine showcasing his vocal range and dancing skills. Big Boi and Borlenghi also give strong performances, with Big Boi embodying the stern but caring father and Borlenghi portraying the tough but loving manager.

Overall, The Bobby DeBarge Story is a compelling look at the life of a talented musician who struggled with addiction and personal demons. It showcases the power of music and the importance of family, even in the toughest of times. The film is a must-watch for fans of Switch, R&B, and soul music.

The Bobby DeBarge Story is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.