![]() ![]() Throughout the documentary, it was repeated that Ms Simone wanted to be the first Black classical pianist in America. Yes, mental illness is part of her legacy, but there is another aspect to her, her process, her heart, her insight. ![]() What I am not here for is ascribing it to her creative dexterity. I am all for addressing mental illness as it relates to Black women. Is that why this documentary is so beloved? Is that why this documentary is receiving little, to no, critical analysis? We accept that Black women are trauma riddled, crazy, violent, angry beasts- especially the dark-skinned ones. But, the fact that this woman survived America and created such searingly beautiful music, is worthy of respectful documentation. Certainly, like Charlie Parker, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, James Baldwin, her story is complex. When I look at Nina Simone, I see what is right with her, and what was wrong with the culture that surrounded her.Ĭlearly, Nina Simone is one of America’s greatest geniuses. That’s the premise for a story about Nina Simone? What happened to her? It reminded me of the title: “Whatever Happened To Baby Jane?.” How about…”The genius of Nina Simone.” “The power of Nina Simone.” Is that how our culture experiences the power that was this woman? What was wrong with her? 7 Great Documentaries About Remarkable Women, From ‘What Happened, Miss Simone?’ to ‘The Beaches of Agnes’ ![]()
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