About Amazing Grace (HBO)

"Amazing Grace" is a powerful and uplifting documentary released in 2018 by HBO. Taking us back to 1972, it captures the live recording of Aretha Franklin's most successful gospel album, "Amazing Grace", at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles. It's a remarkable chronicle of a music icon's genius and a cultural milestone.

Making / Production

The film production was originally undertaken by Sydney Pollack but was shelved due to technical issues. The footage was rediscovered decades later by Alan Elliott who went on to produce and release the film posthumously after obtaining the necessary legal clearances and permissions.

Actors

• Aretha Franklin - Playing herself, the 'Queen of Soul' delivered delightful melodies and a powerful performance that reflected her faith and her musical genius.
• James Cleveland - The American gospel singer was the preacher at the recording, delivering soul-stirring words along with Franklin's iconic tunes.
• Reverend C.L Franklin - Aretha's father, he gave a moving speech at the recording praising his daughter and her extraordinary talent.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Amazing Grace is Aretha Franklin's biggest-selling album.
• Until its release, the footage was unseen for almost 50 years due to synchronization problems.
• Amazing Grace was originally recorded in front of a live audience at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Los Angeles over two nights.
• Mick Jagger and Charlie Watts of the Rolling Stones were in the audience on the second night.

Awards

"Amazing Grace" was nominated for "Best Music Film" at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, demonstrating its impact and brilliance as a music documentary.

Quotes

• "This is not just going to church, this is a religious experience" - Aretha Franklin
• "Aretha is not just singing the gospel, she's preaching it" - Reverend James Cleveland

Music, Soundtrack

• Amazing Grace
• How I Got Over
• My Sweet Lord

The live recording, bound together with Franklin's powerful voice and evocative lyrics, produced a genuinely moving cinematic experience.