What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015) Movie Review: An Intimate Portrait of a Music Icon
What Happened, Miss Simone?, directed by Liz Garbus, is a 2015 documentary that explores the life and legacy of Nina Simone, the renowned jazz and blues singer, and civil rights activist. The film offers an intimate and comprehensive look at Simone’s career, personal struggles, and her impact on music and social justice.
Plot Overview
The documentary delves into the life of Nina Simone, featuring archival footage, personal interviews, and rare recordings to paint a portrait of the artist. It examines Simone’s rise to fame, her unique musical style, and her significant contributions to the civil rights movement. The film also addresses the personal challenges Simone faced, including her struggles with mental health, her tumultuous relationships, and her exile from the United States.
Central to the film is Simone’s role as a vocal advocate for civil rights. The documentary highlights her powerful performances of protest songs and her involvement in key civil rights events. It also explores her complex relationship with the U.S. and her eventual move to Europe, where she continued her career amid personal and professional difficulties.
IMDb Rating and Reception
What Happened, Miss Simone? holds an IMDb rating of 7.6/10. The documentary has been praised for its insightful and respectful portrayal of Nina Simone, offering a nuanced view of her life and career. Critics have lauded the film for its depth, emotional resonance, and the effective use of archival material to tell Simone’s story.
Key Elements and Analysis
Personal and Professional Struggles: The film provides an in-depth look at Simone’s struggles with mental health, her battles with the music industry, and her challenging personal relationships. These elements are portrayed with sensitivity, offering a balanced view of Simone’s life beyond her public persona.
Civil Rights Activism: A significant portion of the documentary focuses on Simone’s activism and her role in the civil rights movement. Her music is shown as both a form of personal expression and a powerful tool for social change. The film captures the impact of songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” on the civil rights movement.
Musical Legacy: The documentary highlights Simone’s distinctive musical style, which blended jazz, blues, classical, and folk influences. It includes performances and interviews that showcase her vocal talent, her piano skills, and her unique approach to music.
Archival Footage and Interviews: The film makes extensive use of archival footage, including rare performances and personal interviews with Simone. These elements provide authenticity and depth, allowing viewers to experience Simone’s music and personality directly.
Direction and Cinematography
Liz Garbus’s direction is a key strength of What Happened, Miss Simone?, providing a compelling and respectful portrayal of Simone’s life. Garbus’s approach ensures that the documentary captures both the triumphs and struggles of Simone’s career and personal life.
The cinematography complements the film’s narrative, using a mix of historical footage and contemporary interviews to create a cohesive and engaging portrait of Simone. The visual style enhances the emotional impact of the documentary and provides context for Simone’s music and activism.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
What Happened, Miss Simone? has contributed to a renewed interest in Nina Simone’s life and work, highlighting her influence on music and social justice. The documentary has been praised for its contribution to the broader conversation about Simone’s legacy and the challenges faced by artists who engage with political and social issues.
The film has also sparked discussions about the representation of black female artists in history and the impact of mental health on creative individuals. It remains a significant work for those interested in music history, civil rights, and the complexities of Simone’s life and career.
Streaming Availability
As of 2024, What Happened, Miss Simone? is available for streaming on Netflix, which originally distributed the documentary. It can also be rented or purchased through digital services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.
Conclusion
What Happened, Miss Simone? is a poignant and insightful documentary that offers a deep and respectful exploration of Nina Simone’s life, career, and legacy. With Liz Garbus’s skillful direction, extensive use of archival material, and a focus on both Simone’s musical achievements and personal struggles, the film provides a comprehensive portrait of one of music’s most influential figures. For those interested in the intersection of music, activism, and personal history, What Happened, Miss Simone? is a must-watch, celebrating the enduring impact of Nina Simone’s artistry and advocacy.
