Which Beyoncé film role was Deena Jones in Dreamgirls?

Beyoncé played Deena Jones in the 2006 film Dreamgirls. The musical drama, directed by Bill Condon, was loosely inspired by the history of the Supremes and the rise of Motown-style groups.

Deena begins as a shy singer in the Dreams, a trio that also includes Effie White and Lorrell Robinson. After manager Curtis Taylor Jr. reshapes the act for commercial success, Deena becomes the group’s lead vocalist, while Effie is pushed aside. The plot explores ambition, fame, discrimination and betrayal.

Jennifer Hudson played Effie and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Beyoncé’s performance included songs such as “Listen,” which was written specifically for the film and became a major international single.

Dreamgirls was Beyoncé’s second major feature-film role after Austin Powers in Goldmember. The movie received eight Oscar nominations and won two, including Hudson’s acting award and Best Sound Mixing.