American Symphony
American Symphony

American Symphony

2023Movie104 minEnglish

Musician Jon Batiste attempts to compose a symphony as his wife, writer Suleika Jaouad, undergoes cancer treatment.

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Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic84/100
Google Users94%
Director: Matthew HeinemanGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the extraordinary journey of Grammy-winning artist Jon Batiste as he works on his fourth album, 'We Are,' and composes his first symphony. The film interweaves the creative process with the personal struggles Batiste and his wife, Suleika Jaouad, face, including Jaouad's battle with leukemia.

Critical Reception

American Symphony received widespread critical acclaim for its intimate portrayal of an artist's life, the power of music, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Critics lauded its emotional depth, stunning musical performances, and compelling narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • A profoundly moving and inspiring look at the intersection of art, love, and life.
  • Jon Batiste's talent and vulnerability shine through in this deeply personal documentary.
  • The film masterfully balances the creation of monumental art with the intimate realities of life and loss.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised the film's emotional impact, finding it to be inspiring, beautiful, and a powerful testament to love and perseverance. Many highlighted Jon Batiste's incredible talent and the raw honesty of the narrative.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song for 'It Never Went Away'.

Fun Fact

The film's score includes original compositions by Jon Batiste, including his first symphony, which is a central focus of the documentary.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Not being terribly steeped in my "American Roots" I was wondering just who Jon Batiste actually was and whether, Aaron Copland-style, we were going to get a modern day illustration of a man writing an art-form that would seem to have long g...
Brent Marchant

Brent Marchant

Creating a great work of art is very much like creating a heartfelt, loving relationship. Both take work and commitment, both in good times and bad. The challenges can be difficult, but the rewards can be incalculable. Learning how to succe...