Hutchins Center: “The Amazing Nina Simone” Film Screening

Date: 

Thursday, March 3, 2016, 6:00pm

Location: 

Harvard Art Museum, Menschel Hall, 480 Broadway Street, Cambridge, MA

She was left out of Civil Rights history, erased by jazz critics, and forgotten by most Americans because no one knew how to categorize her greatness.  But throughout the 1960s, Nina Simone was both loved and feared for her outspoken vision of Black Freedom.  Her musical proclamations like "Mississippi Goddam", and her iconic style gave voice to people of all colors facing oppression, and continues to empower today with its unrelenting appeal for justice.  Now the story of America?s most overlooked musical genius is finally brought to light in the acclaimed new documentary film, “The Amazing Nina Simone.”

Director Jeff L. Lieberman (”Re-Emerging: The Jews of Nigeria”) brings audiences on Nina’s journey from the segregated South, through the worlds of classical music, jazz joints & international concert halls. Navigating through the twists & turns of the 1960’s fight for racial equality, the film delves deep into Nina’s artistry and intentions, and is told through over 50 exclusive and intimate interviews with the people who knew Nina best: her friends, family, musicians and fellow activists. Eric Burdon (The Animals), Sam Waymon (Nina’s Brother & Longtime Band Member), Nikki Giovanni (Poet, Professor & Friend) & Marie Christine Dunham-Pratt (Nina's Lover & Friend) are just a few of the people who answer long-held questions behind Nina?s most beloved songs, bold style, controversial statements, and the reason she left America.  (2015, United States 105 Minutes)