Jordin Sparks 'sparkles' in upcoming film

Jordin Sparks, who plays the title role in the Sparkle remake that opens Aug. 17, says she saw parallels between the film's story and her time on American Idol.

"When I was on Idol and 17, everything was so new," the show's sixth-season winner tells USA TODAY's Susan Wloszczyna. "Everyone is so nice and wants to see you succeed." However, she adds, "I learned that is not always the truth. I...