This fascinating documentary about musician Jon Batiste’s journey to compose his ‘American Symphony’ is not only a study of musical genius and creativity but also compassion, as Batiste and his wife Suleika are, at the same time, also coping with her ongoing leukemia treatment. Equal parts engrossing and heartbreaking, the film (from Oscar-nominated director Matthew Heineman) coasts on Batiste’s charm and infectious personality, but it becomes an Oscar frontrunner thanks to its innate humanity.
5/5 stars