Watch What Happened, Miss Simone?

In 2015, the documentary film What Happened, Miss Simone? was released, exploring the life and career of the legendary musician and civil rights activist Nina Simone. Directed by Liz Garbus, the film presents a deeply personal and intimate portrait of Simone, drawing on archival footage, rare interviews, and recordings, as well as interviews with Simone's daughter, Lisa Simone Kelly, and former bandmates and collaborators.

The film traces Simone's trajectory from her early years in rural North Carolina to her rise to prominence as a jazz singer and outspoken political activist in the 1960s. It delves into her struggles with mental illness and the trauma of racism, sexism, and domestic violence, which she channeled into some of her most powerful and searing songs.

Throughout the film, we see Simone's fierce dedication to her craft and her unwavering commitment to social justice. From her early days playing in Atlantic City piano bars to her iconic performance at the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, Simone used her music as a tool for change, speaking out against oppression and inequality and inspiring a generation of activists.

The film also explores the many facets of Simone's life beyond her music, including her relationships with her family, her troubled marriages, and her lifelong struggle with bipolar disorder. Despite the challenges she faced, Simone remained a force to be reckoned with, continuously pushing the boundaries of both music and activism.

What Happened, Miss Simone? provides a fascinating and illuminating look into the life and legacy of one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Simone's voice and vision continue to resonate today, as people around the world draw inspiration from her music and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

Overall, What Happened, Miss Simone? is a powerful and moving tribute to a true icon, exploring the complex and often tumultuous life of a woman who refused to be silenced and whose music continues to inspire and empower generations of listeners.

What Happened, Miss Simone? is a 2015 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 75.