Watch Sergio Mendes in the Key of Joy

Sergio Mendes in the Key of Joy is a 2020 documentary that sheds light on the legendary Brazilian musician and composer, Sergio Mendes. Directed by John Scheinfeld, the film takes us on a spectacular journey through Mendes’ life and career, spanning over six decades. The documentary features interviews with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Quincy Jones, John Legend, Carlinhos Brown, and Harrison Ford, among others. Throughout the film, viewers are treated to a unique blend of insight into Mendes’ personal life, his approach to music, and how his art has been shaped by larger social and cultural currents.

The documentary features a range of archival footage and photos, which help to bring the story to life. We see images of Mendes’ humble beginnings, growing up in a small town in Brazil, and how he eventually made his way onto the global stage. The film does an impressive job of placing Mendes’ accomplishments in the context of larger social and historical contexts. Notably, the film explores how Mendes’ music became a vehicle for social and political change during Brazil’s turbulent military dictatorship.

In addition to archival footage, Sergio Mendes in the Key of Joy also features contemporary performances and interviews with Mendes himself. Viewers get a firsthand look at how Mendes approaches his music-making process, and how he has remained current and relevant over the years by blending traditional Brazilian rhythms with contemporary sounds.

One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is the way it explores the collaborations and friendships that have defined Mendes’ career. Viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes glimpses of Mendes’ work with luminaries such as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Frank Sinatra, and Stevie Wonder. We also get to see how Mendes continues to collaborate, having worked with artists like Black Eyed Peas, Will.I.Am, and Janelle Monae.

Throughout it all, Mendes’ music remains at the center of the story. We see how the vibrant and upbeat rhythms of Brazilian jazz have remained at the core of Mendes’ sound, even as he has explored a range of other genres throughout his career. In particular, the film does an excellent job of emphasizing how Mendes’ music has always been about joy and celebration, even as it has responded to difficult and challenging times.

Overall, Sergio Mendes in the Key of Joy is a delightfully uplifting documentary about a true icon of modern music. With stunning visuals, incisive commentary, and plenty of performances along the way, this film is a must-see for anyone who considers themselves a fan of world music or music history in general. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Sergio Mendes, or someone who is coming to his music for the first time, this documentary is sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted, and with a newfound appreciation for the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

Sergio Mendes in the Key of Joy is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.