The true story of The Temptations, the Soul vocal group of the 1960s, as seen from the viewpoint of the last surviving member, Otis Williams. Beginning from their humble origins in the late 50s and continuing through the 90s and the deaths of the other 4 members.

Otis Williams' ex-wife Josephine, Melvin Franklin's mother Rose, and David Ruffin's family, filed suit against Williams, Motown, De Passe Entertainment, Hallmark Entertainment, and NBC for use of their likenesses in the film, defamation of character, and emotional distress. The plaintiffs claimed that they and/or their relatives and certain events were portrayed inaccurately. The judges ruled in favor of the defendants. The plaintiffs appealed but the original ruling was upheld. Otis Williams later stated that while his book was the source material for the film, he did not have control over the making of the film.

David Ruffin:
I'm the one sellin' the records. They're comin' to see me.


Otis Williams:
They're comin' to see the Temptations.


David Ruffin:
Ain't nobody comin' to see you, Otis! You wish you could work it the way I do, but you can't! Because there is only one David Ruffin. And without him, the Temps ain't nothin' but a group in SEARCH of a David Ruffin. Matter of fact, I been thinkin'. We should call the group David Ruffin And The Temptations. Yeah, that sound good to me. Y'all beggin' me not to leave you.

[sings]


David Ruffin:
"And I refuse to let you go." Yeah, David Ruffin And The Temptations. Whatcha think?


Otis Williams:
[stands up] That ain't never gonna happen.

Continuity: When The Temptations are singing at the New Year's party, Melvin Franklin's tie disappears between shots.