The Color Purple (1985) - Did Spielberg Water It Down TOO Much?

Okay, book nerds, OliviaCinema here! Let's talk about "The Color Purple" (1985). I read Alice Walker's novel YEARS ago, and it completely wrecked me. The movie... well, it definitely touched me, but it didn't leave me gutted the same way. And I think I know why. I have a theory that Spielberg, bless his heart, may have consciously softened some of the harsher, more complex themes to make it more palatable for a wider (white) audience. Think about it. Celie's abuse is depicted, yes, but… is it felt as deeply? The novel delves into the psychological trauma and the raw, visceral pain in a way I don’t think the film quite manages. Squeak's transformation feels rushed, and while Oprah is phenomenal as Sofia, the movie's Sofia doesn't feel as deeply rebellious, or as damaged. And even Shug Avery, while beautifully portrayed by Margaret Avery, has a… gentler edge in the film. Maybe it's just me, but I almost felt like the movie avoided truly confronting some of the more uncomfortable issues of internalized misogyny and the brutal realities of the time. Now, don't get me wrong! The performances are incredible. Whoopi Goldberg IS Celie. And the cinematography is gorgeous. However, I think the film prioritizes a message of hope and redemption over a truly unflinching portrayal of trauma and survival in the Jim Crow South. Maybe it's not a bad thing per se, but it does fundamentally change the story. I kinda want to know what someone like Ava DuVernay would do with it now, y'know? Like, give me the UNCENSORED version, please! I'm really curious what you all think! Did any other book readers find the movie a little bit… too sanitized? Or am I being too harsh? Let's discuss!