Legendary gospel/soul powerhouse, Mavis Staples, takes the spotlight in this spirited musical biopic, which chronicles her decades-long career, and brings to light her infectious joy for life.
At 76-years-old, Mavis Staples is still a force to be reckoned with. She’s been on the road for most of her life, but her deep, soulful voice is as captivating as ever. Though people continuously ask her when she’ll retire, she retorts: “I’ll stop singing when I have nothing left to say.” And it’s clear from this tender portrait she won’t be stopping anytime soon. Director Jessica Edwards masterfully weaves together archival footage with present-day interviews to illuminate the life and career of one of music’s greatest vocal powerhouses. From her gospel beginnings as the lead vocalist of The Staples Singers, which spawned hits such as “I’ll Take You There,” to her work with the civil rights movement, to her Grammy-winning solo endeavors, Mavis! doesn’t miss a beat. Featuring dynamic live performances and interviews with some of her closest collaborators (including Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Chuck D, and Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy), Mavis’ contribution to American musical history is sealed in this touching tribute.
DIRECTOR: Jessica Edwards LANGUAGE: English COUNTRY: USA YEAR: 2015 LENGTH: 81 min
