Remaking the 1976 classic film Sparkle was a labor of love for producer Debra Martin Chase. The movie, which was over 12 years in the making with her longtime producing partner and friend, the late Whitney Houston, has finally found its way to the big screen. In this incarnation Jordin Sparks, Carmen Ejogo and Tika Sumpter star as the trio of singing sisters who endure tragedy and heartache to achieve individual triumphs in life.

While it shares a period girl group similarity, don’t expect a Dreamgirls retread. Sparkle uniquely embraces themes of empowerment, family, sisterhood and explores the delicate ties that bind mothers and daughters.

Chase shared her recollections of Houston with BET.com and chatted why movie classics like Set It Off and Mahogany would make fabulous remakes.

Sparkle hits theaters nationwide August 17. For more with Chase, check out the video below.

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(Photo: Ben Gabbe/Getty Images)