

Movie spotlight
Amazing Grace
Montreal, December 31, 1933. Inside the storefront window of the grand Ogilvy store, a young worker watches passersby with envy. Tonight, she has nowhere to go. When the store closes, she finds herself outside admiring a party in a neighboring house. She notices a young man. In spite of the cold, she doesn’t move, looking at the young man, and she is softly swept away into a world of dreams.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary captures the recording sessions of Aretha Franklin's seminal 1972 live gospel album, "Amazing Grace." Filmed over two nights at a Los Angeles church, the footage remained unseen for decades due to production issues. The film immerses viewers in the powerful, spiritual atmosphere as Franklin and her choir deliver a transcendent performance.
Critical Reception
The film received widespread critical acclaim upon its delayed release, with critics praising its raw emotional power and Aretha Franklin's unparalleled vocal performance. Audiences were deeply moved by the spiritual intensity and the historical significance of finally seeing this legendary recording brought to life.
What Reviewers Say
A deeply spiritual and electrifying musical experience.
Aretha Franklin's unparalleled vocal power is on full, glorious display.
Offers a rare and intimate glimpse into a legendary musical event.
Google audience: Viewers lauded the film for its incredible music, powerful performances, and spiritual resonance. Many expressed awe at finally being able to see the iconic "Amazing Grace" album being recorded and felt deeply moved by the experience.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Music Film at the Grammys (2019), won Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Hamptons International Film Festival (2018).
Fun Fact
The "Amazing Grace" album became the best-selling gospel album of all time and one of the best-selling albums by any artist, yet the accompanying film footage was shelved for over 40 years due to technical problems with the sound recording.
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