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Deep Dive: Mr. SOUL! (2018)

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Mr. SOUL!
Mr. SOUL! is a documentary about Ellis Haizlip, the producer and host of the music-and-talk program SOUL!, which aired on public television from 1968 to 1973. The film combines archival footage with interviews and performances from the show, featuring notable guests such as Harry Belafonte, Nikki Giovanni, and Al Green. It aims to portray the significance of SOUL! in representing the Black experience during a time of political change in America. The documentary incorporates Ellis Haizlip's words through various sources, voiced by actor Blair Underwood. It emphasizes the show's mission to make Black voices visible in a predominantly white media landscape. The film premiered at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival and has received numerous accolades, including a Peabody Award for Best Documentary in 2022.

Why Watch

  • •See performances from Al Green and Stevie Wonder.
  • •Meet influential figures like Nikki Giovanni and Harry Belafonte.
  • •Find out about the impact of SOUL! on Black representation.

Did You Know

•Mr. SOUL! won 21 awards out of 32 nominations, including 14 Film Festival Awards.
•The film premiered on April 22, 2018, at the Tribeca Film Festival.
•The end title song 'Show Me Your Soul' was shortlisted for the 93rd Academy Awards.
•Ellis Haizlip's words are voiced by actor Blair Underwood in the film.

Perfect For

Music history enthusiastsBlack cultural studiesPublic television fans