Back in February it was announced that a Marvin Gaye biopic was moving forward to the big screen. But now word has surfaced that Gaye’s family is not pleased with the project's plans.

The Independent is reporting that Marvin's ex-wife Janis Gaye fears the upcoming film, titled Sexual Healing, about the Motown legend will only “focus on his drug abuse, [and] on other negative aspects of his life.”

Sexual Healing is set to be directed by Julien Temple, who is known for directing Janet Jackson's "Alright" and "When I Think of You" music videos. The flick will reportedly cover the singer's final years—including his exile to Belgium, his battle with drugs and the events leading up to his death. Gaye was shot to death by his father, Marvin Sr., a day before his 45th birthday in 1984.

Despite her dissatisfaction with the current direction of Gaye’s biopic, Janis believes only one actor can recreate the magic of the soul crooner onscreen: Denzel Washington. “I just feel he would be the ideal Marvin, if there is such a thing." So far there has been no announcements as to whom may play Gaye in Sexual Healing.

To date, several failed Gaye biopics have been planned over the years, including productions with actors Jesse L. Martin and Terrance Howard attached to the leading role.

(Photo: MCT /Landov)