Moving documentary about an icon of "Black History" and "Women's History" and especially Black Women's history. And not just culturally, for her uniquely exquisite vocal expression and innovations, but for her social and political impact as well. And a righteous tribute to her overcoming challenges that would defeat most people. Just her teen years alone deserve a film, going from reform school and homelessness in early teens to recording star in late teens and never stopping her evolution to worldwide beloved musical genius. (Only thing that bothered me was occasional use of later decades performance photos and video over narration about earlier periods.) On Netflix, highly recommend.
Cleverly framed doc about a 1978 coffee table book of photos of second wave feminists and where some of them are today (or rather "were" when the film was shot a few years ago). Focused on NYC and LA it misses some major figures, but selects a representative group that covers a lot of the stories and perspectives of an impactful movement. I was surprised at how many people in the movie I knew personally, and was happy and moved to see dear friend the late Aloma Ichinose featured. It felt like a visit from her. It covers a lot of people so some critics felt it could have narrowed the focus to just a handful and thus been able to dig deeper. But as it is, it's a lively and well done introduction to vital history and a movement more relevant than ever. Also on Netflix and highly recommended.
No comments:
Post a Comment