Watch Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart

Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart is a biographical made-for-television movie that takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the life of celebrated American R&B singer, Toni Braxton. The movie premiered in 2016 on the Lifetime network. The movie opens with a young Toni (played by Lex Scott Davis) and her sisters singing at their church in Maryland. As the years go by, Toni's family moves to Atlanta and she joins her sisters to form a group they named "The Braxtons". The group gains some recognition before disbanding, leading Toni to embark on a solo career.

Despite facing several challenges, like bankruptcy, a chronic health condition, and a tumultuous personal life including two failed marriages, Toni rises to become one of the most successful R&B artists of her time, with her popularity skyrocketing in the 1990s. Braxton's hit songs, including 'Un-break My Heart,' 'Breathe Again,' and 'You're Making Me High,' are showcased in the movie, giving viewers a chance to reminisce and appreciate her music once more.

Throughout the movie, we see Toni struggling with auto-immune disease lupus, which affects her life and career; however, with the support of her family, including her mother Evelyn (played by Deborah Cox), who serves as her manager, Toni manages to achieve international success. Despite the fame and success, Antonia struggled with the idea of being liked and loved, always tearing herself down in her mind. Despite her family's attempts to support her and her treatment, Antonia repeatedly rejects them and spirals into her own self-doubt and depression.

Over the course of the movie, viewers see Toni fight to overcome the obstacles she faces in both her personal and professional life. The scene where Toni's third marriage falls apart is particularly intense and emotional, as it illustrates the vulnerabilities she experiences while trying to make her relationship work.

The performance of the lead actress, Skye P. Marshall as the adult Toni, is impressive, with her striking resemblance to the real Toni Braxton, and she masterfully embodies the artist's character, attitude, and mannerisms to the tiniest detail. She gives a strong performance that showcases the highs and lows of Toni's life, portraying Braxton's emotional breakdowns with considerable sensitivity.

Eli Goree, who plays the musician's long-time friend and confidante, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, helps to bring a fresh perspective and dynamic to the movie. His character provides a balance to the movie, making it feel both celebratory and reflective.

While Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart does a commendable job of reflecting on Toni Braxton's career and struggles, the film does have some minor flaws. The film may be overly fast-paced, making it feel like some parts are rushed through or truncated. The story may feel shallow in areas, with a minimal focus on particular characters, or they may seem to appear only when the plot requires them. These weaknesses could have been reframed, and despite the great efforts of the actors, the script could have done better.

However, overall, the movie is an inspiring tale of one woman's rise to fame, overcoming adversity and keeping her head up despite the challenges she faces. It views the R&B superstar's story realistically as she battles with both professional and personal challenges, achieving great heights despite the odds against her.

In conclusion, Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart is a compelling and well-made movie that offers an inside look into the life of a pop sensation who struggled to balance her artistry, finances, and personal life. The movie provides a fantastic performance by Skye P. Marshall and an excellent portrayal of the Braxton family dynamics. It is worth watching if you are a fan of Toni Braxton, R&B music, or biographical films.

Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.