"One Night Only" is a song performed by Jennifer Hudson for the musical film adaptation of "Dreamgirls". The song serves as a pivotal moment in the story, where the character Effie White, portrayed by Hudson, confronts her lover Curtis Taylor Jr. (played by Jamie Foxx) about his inability to commit to a long-term relationship. The lyrics depict Effie's deep love and devotion towards Curtis, expressing her willingness to give him everything she has. However, the central issue lies in Curtis's lack of time and commitment. He can only offer her one night together, with no intention of taking their relationship any further. Effie tries to convince Curtis to reconsider his stance, acknowledging her everlasting love for him. However, she also realizes that their connection only has a limited timeframe. Despite knowing that their passionate affair will end after one night, Effie is willing to embrace the momentary happiness and ignore the consequences. The song's narrative explores themes of desire, longing, and the complexities of relationships. It reflects the characters' struggles with commitment and the fleeting nature of their connection. Ultimately, "One Night Only" serves as a powerful and emotional plea from Effie to Curtis, highlighting their conflicting desires and the resulting consequences of their choices.
