Review: What Happened, Miss Simone? Directed by Liz Garbus; Netflix

What Happened, Miss Simone?; Director Liz Garbus; NetflixRelease date: January 2015
Film Shorts

WHAT HAPPENED, MISS SIMONE?

Sometimes I like to wait years to enjoy contemporary art (music, books, film, etc...). It allows me to not ride the wave of enthusiasm and form my own views on the project.

This documentary is excellent in all aspects. Though I'd heard of Nina Simone and her music in passing, I didn't dig into her catalog until five or so years ago. This documentary ties her music to her personal story, offers a strong unbiased first-person narrative via her interviews and more balanced perspectives via interviews with her daughter, former husband, fellow musicians and friends.

Recommendation: HIGHEST

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Reviewed by Guichard Cadet