Those who weren’t watching the CMAs Wednesday night were tuning in to Fox’s The X Factor for “movie night” where the final 11 contestants performed songs from iconic movies.  Sounds a little familiar, wouldn’t you say?  We’ve seen this on nearly every season of American Idol.  Find out who received two thumbs up below:

First up was Stacy Francis, who performed Whitney Houston’s “Queen of the Night” from The Bodyguard, which is possibly the most over-performed soundtrack selection ever next to “I Will Always Love You.”  While vocally decent, the performance was lackluster.  In her defense, she sure does know how to move on stage in a tight red dress.  Shake it, girl!

Marcus Cantey chose Rose Royce’s “I’m Going Down” from Car Wash, which was an odd song selection.  Of the entire catalogue of films to choose from, I don’t understand why Marcus wouldn’t go with a more recognizable track.  His voice was pretty good, and I’m diggin’ his sparkly silver jacket.  Not many men can pull off sequin attire.

Fourteen-year-old Drew, my favorite contestant, went with Coldplay’s “Fix You” from You, Me & Dupree.  Not only was the song a stripped down rendition like her version of Justin Bieber’s “Baby,” it was modern and suited her well.  If you close your eyes, this girl could be Florence Welch.  But it is best to keep your eyes closed; the only negative thing about her performance was her awkward side pony tail and tacky dress. 

Drew

LeRoy Bell sang U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” from Runaway Bride.  While his performance had a few moments that were on point vocally, it was sleepy overall.  But LeRoy’s beanie hat is pretty rockin’.  He gets the award for coolest headwear of the night.

Group LaKoda Rayne chose “Somebody Like You” by Keith Urban from How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days.  These girls gave it their best shot, but this song was not a good choice.  They are a good looking bunch, but just not as talented as some of the others in this competition.  Next, please.

Brooklyn native Astro selected Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” from 8 Mile.  Not only was this the best song choice of the night, it was the best performance.  For a kid this young, he understands himself as an artist, which is something older contestants have struggled with.  Astro left the diva attitude at home this week and gave his condolences for the deaths of Joe Frazier and Heavy D.  I’m starting to like the less arrogant Astro.

I respect Melanie Amaro’s song choice of Michael Jackson’s “Man In the Mirror” from This Is It.  While I still find it a little awkward when a female sings this song, she nailed it vocally.  The song was perfect for her range.  Four stars, Melanie.

Melanie Amaro

A group was cut last week, so it was especially important for the group acts to pull through this week.  The Stereo Hogzz were a letdown with Christina Aguilera’s “Ain’t No Other Man.”  Personally I think Christina songs shouldn’t be touched.  They were looking suave in their slick suits and hats, but they may be in trouble this week.  Sorry, Paula.

Josh Krajcik took on the Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends,” but he didn’t need any help.  He incorporated his raspy, soulful sound that landed him a spot in the top 11.  He won’t have any problem making it into the top 10.  See you next week, Josh!

One point for the rappers of The X Factor, everyone else, zero.  Chris Rene had one of my favorite songs from a movie, performing Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” from Dangerous Minds.  He first caught my attention at Boot Camp when he sang Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing,” and he reminded me tonight why he has my vote.  He ties with Astro for best performance of the night.

Rachel Crow closed the show with Etta James’ “I’d Rather Go Blind,” the song that Beyoncé sang in Cadillac Records.  The song fit her, but she needs to sing a younger one in the future.  Still, I think America will like her as much as I like her adorable pink shoes.

The only review that really matters is America’s.  Find out what they decided on Thursday night at 8 p.m when someone will be sent home.  Until then…

Images: Ray Mickshaw

Katherine Epstein (@RTNowRadio) for RightNowRadio © 2011