Best nina simone biography movies
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A real somebody.” – Said early in the film, reflecting her ambition and desire for recognition as an artist.
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
In the 2016 biographical film ‘Nina,’ the role of Nina Simone is played by actress Zoe Saldaña.
Yes, the movie ‘Nina’ is based on the life of the iconic jazz musician and civil rights activist Nina Simone.
It provides a multifaceted view of her contributions. Despite some poignant moments, the film never truly resonates, feeling more like a series of isolated scenes than a cohesive portrait.
Audience Reactions
Some viewers found Zoe Saldana’s performance and singing effort noteworthy despite the controversy.: A small segment of the audience felt the film offered a glimpse into Nina Simone’s struggles and human side, appreciating Saldana’s effort in a difficult role.
Many viewers were disappointed by the film’s narrow focus on Nina Simone’s later, turbulent years.: There is widespread agreement that the film failed to capture the depth, genius, and cultural significance of Nina Simone’s career and activism.
The casting choice of Zoe Saldana and the use of makeup sparked significant negative reactions.: A major point of criticism across the board was the controversial portrayal of Nina Simone’s appearance and the decision to focus on a fictionalized relationship.
Overall Consensus: Largely seen as a missed opportunity and a controversial portrayal, the film faced significant criticism for its casting, narrow narrative focus, and failure to capture Nina Simone’s iconic legacy.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The film faced significant controversy over the casting of Zoe Saldana, a lighter-skinned actress, to play Nina Simone, a darker-skinned woman, leading to accusations of colorism and criticism from Simone’s estate.”
- “Director Cynthia Mort also filed a lawsuit against the film’s production company, claiming she was locked out of editing and the final cut did not reflect her vision for the film, which she alleged was tampered with.”
- “The film was originally intended to star Mary J.
Blige as Nina Simone, with a different director attached, but faced numerous delays in production before Saldana was cast.”
- “Zoe Saldana reportedly spent several hours daily in makeup to darken her skin and wear prosthetics, a process she later reflected on with regret given the negative reaction to her casting.”
🖥️ How to Watch Nina?
As of late 2023/early 2024, ‘Nina’ (2016) is not widely available on major subscription streaming services in the US.
However, it can typically be found for digital rental or purchase on platforms like AmazonPrime Video, Apple TV (iTunes), Google Play, YouTube Movies, and Vudu.
The film primarily takes place during her time living in France in the 1990s, showcasing her struggles with mental health, substance abuse, and financial difficulties.
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🎬 Cast & Characters
- Nina Simone (Zoe Saldaña): The legendary jazz musician and classical pianist whose later life struggles are depicted through her relationship with her manager.
- Clifton Henderson (David Oyelowo): Nina Simone’s nurse, assistant, and later manager who forms the central relationship of the film during her final years.
- Richard Pryor (Mike Epps): An old friend who appears in interviews providing context about Nina Simone’s life and personality.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Nina Simone: “I want to be somebody.
was even nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 88th Academy Awards, underscoring its impact and significance.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
2) Nina: An Historical Perspective
"Nina: An Historical Perspective" is a documentary produced by Peter Rodis in 1970.
If you want to know Nina Simone, honestly, listen to her music or watch the documentary ‘What Happened, Miss Simone?’ – that one really captures her spirit better.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Viewers interested in biographical dramas, particularly those exploring the personal struggles of artists in their later years.”
- “Fans of Zoe Saldaña or David Oyelowo, curious about their performances in challenging roles (keeping in mind the significant controversy).”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Depiction of addiction and substance abuse”
- “Portrayal of mental illness and erratic behavior”
- “Controversial casting and makeup that many viewers found offensive”
- “Thematic focus on personal decline rather than career highlights”
Professional Reviews
- Flick Focus: “Nina Simone’s life is rich with music, activism, and complexity, yet this film struggles to capture her essence.
What Happened, Miss Simone?
Who is Nina Simone?
Nina Simone, original name Eunice Waymon, (born February 21, 1933, Tryon, North Carolina, U.S.—died April 21, 2003, Carry-le-Rouet, France), American singer who created urgent emotional intensity by singing songs of love, protest, and Black empowerment in a dramatic style, with a rough-edged voice.
A precocious child, Simone played piano and organ in girlhood.
See the Fandango FanClub Program Terms for details. You were sent to save me.” – Spoken to her manager, Clifton Henderson, highlighting her dependence on him during a vulnerable moment in her later life.
- Nina Simone: “They want me to be nice. I am not that person.” – Expressed during a period of decline, reflecting her internal struggles and feeling disconnected from her public persona and past self.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $7,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $37,244
- Worldwide Gross: $37,244
💥 Nina Reviews
Personal Review
Okay, so I finally watched ‘Nina’ and honestly, it was a tough one.
Instead, the movie really focuses on her later years and her relationship with her manager, Clifton. Interviews with those who knew her well add personal insights.
The film opened the 2015 Sundance Film Festival and includes a tribute performance by John Legend. Fandango may withdraw or modify this Offer at any time, in its sole discretion and without notice.
These include friends, family, band members, lovers, and fellow activists.
The film not only showcases Simone's artistic talents but also her impact as a civil rights activist. The film depicts their complex bond as he attempts to help Simone navigate her personal demons and stage a career comeback.
⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
If you plan to watch the movie first, watch here and come back to this section afterward.
See Spoilers and Ending
Attempting a Comeback and Finding Peace
SPOILER ALERT: The film culminates with Nina Simone making efforts to return to performing.By focusing primarily on her later years and a questionable dramatization of her relationship with Clifton Henderson, it sidelines the artistic and political fire that defined her. She became sensitive to racism when at age 12 she gave a piano recital in a library where her parents had to stand in back because they were Black.
This film offers an in-depth look at Nina Simone's life and career, focusing on her development as a musician and cultural icon.
The documentary highlights Simone's classical training, which heavily influenced her unique style that blends classical, jazz, blues, and soul. Her vocal career began in 1954 in an Atlantic City, New Jersey, nightclub when the club owner threatened to fire her unless she sang too.
To qualify, you must enroll in a paid Fandango FanClub membership (3-month minimum at $29.97 + tax, then $9.99/month thereafter). Read more on IMDb.
These documentaries reflect various facets of Nina Simone’s life and career, providing a holistic understanding of her influences and accomplishments.