Now this is a music documentary. Nina Simone trained to be a classical pianist since the age of four, but after being rejected from a prestigious music school because of her race, she took odd jobs as a nightclub singer in Atlantic City. Her career as a jazz singer flourished but she didn't really feel fulfilled until she got heavily involved with the Civil Rights movement. Her increasing militancy strained her personal relationships and also damaged her mainstream career.
This is a poignant inside look at a life damaged by mental illness. Nina Simone wasn't diagnosed with bipolar disorder until the late 1980's but the mood swings, fits of violence, and instability were prevalent long before. This added up to a very volatile performer, capable of rendering soaring notes or stony silences during concerts.
I've never had the ear for jazz. Of all the music styles, it may be the most cerebral with its deconstructions and improvisations. I'm not musical and can't fully appreciate all the intricacies but even I can recognize that Nina Simone was an incredible talent. But more, she really tried to leverage her fame to make a difference in the lives of others. It's admirable and even more sad to see her intentions ruined by her personal demons.
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