American Symphony

What can I say? This movie was amazing. I couldn't watch it in one sitting, that is how powerful it is. Both of these people are amazing, her simply admirable and him also, supporting her, living two lives as he puts it - one the fame and the glory and then the real life with her, the reality of her illness, it made me cry. They are both so talented and supportive of each other -- puts your faith back in love. I always thought him amazing but when I found out about her, I was blown away, she really is, as the Doctor says, unique. I love her art and how she uses it to help her through the rough times. A beautiful woman in all respects. As to the symphony itself, hard to judge that except to know he is very talented.

Musician Jon Batiste is composing a symphony while his wife/writer Suleika Jaouad undergoes cancer treatment. This is a documentary. I know Jon Batiste only through "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert". My surface take on him is radical positivity. It's more than being Ed McMahon. He seems like a guy who reacts with a smile no matter what the situation. This movie lets the audience a peek inside the curtains. There are moments. There are big moments of anxiety and doubt and depression. It may be small little peeks, but they are enough to paint a picture of the man and his relationship with his wife. Those extra paint colors really sets off the climatic musical performance.

What was I expecting? The typical rock star vibe, I guess. Absolutely wrong! Not even close. This is an amazing film about a person who is more than we suppose him to be. John Baptiste is an amazing human, amazing musician, so much feeling expressed through thoughts, actions, movement, embracing everyone, leading everyone. Feeling expressed as action, music, words, thoughts. It is a heavy burden to carry. This film portrays all of this so well that you feel what is happening. You do not just watch it. And it is not all happy but it is moving towards a better outcome. Now, I want to know more about this interesting person through his music, through his good works, through his writing. Our world is made better, larger with him in it, I feel somehow. I need to experience his music to understand more. And this film, this documentary, is an exceptional way to experience the mystery that is John Baptiste.

Jon Batiste was first imprinted in my mind during Covid when The Stephen Colbert Show closed for the night. The undeniable positive, creative energy. A beautiful human who heals souls. I am not a religious person but now and again you come across humans who are just that. Clearly the documentary shows you the other side and the very real struggle to not only helplessly stand by while your partner suffers but everything else. Eternal hope and realism and pure love. This was my first introduction to Suleika. What a force and gorgeous artist. She makes me want to pick up my paint brushes again. They are making quite an imprint in this world. Individually and ultimately together. Thank you for making this movie. Kleenex thanks you too.

In everything is joy. What is unique about you? Whatever that is take it and excel with it. In the sadness there is joy to be found. You can not watch this without seeing John Babtist and his partner as pure joy. For in even the darkest times there is joy. That's the theme here and it's beautiful. As a documentary I'd say it's more of a piece of art than a documentary. Touching at every turn. The good the bad , the really bad and the well deserved super good! Watch the first 10 minutes and you'll know if it's for you. I'm betting it is. I'm betting on you. By the end you'll be feeling the increased desire to be the best you can be, find your love, be a blessing to others and find the joy. Bravo!!!

This Documentary is a poignant tale about life, love and art. It is a must see inspirational testament to overcoming insurmountable obstacles and turning poison into potion. Watching the story arch build you get an intimate peak inside what makes Jon Baptiste, the person behind the music, and his highly collaborative creative process. As well as Jon Batiste the family man. The story itself is the embodiment of an American symphony, encompassing all the genres and styles that form what we know to be an important part of American pop culture. If you've ever faced adversity while honing your craft then you will be able to see yourself through the subject of this compelling story.

source: American Symphony

American Symphony is an incredibly personal documentary that strikes a very strong balance between its portrayal of the artistic process and a beautiful relationship. It may be conventional but when it's so well crafted and its story is so emotionally resonant it's near impossible not to be moved or affected by any of this. Jon Batiste is very open here, showing so much in what feels like a very real look at his life and struggles. A magnetic presence when on the stage yet so humbling and relatable in everyday life. It's so interesting to watch his ideas forming in real time whilst his relationship with Suleika Jaouad gives the film its strongest moments. Matthew Heineman's direction manages to be very cinematic in its construction whilst still being able to maintain a consistent sense of intimacy. The structure of the film is really good too, building to the titular symphony in classic biopic fashion which gives it so much weight. Batiste's music and closing song really compliments everything and further foregrounds his undeniable talent.

Not the movie everyone expected but the movie eveyone needs - a beatifully done film that is powerful and engaging - the movie that delivers hope and promise for all of us - Jon Batiste and his wife Suleika have their lifes journeys before them - Unexpected twists and turns force both of them to reflect of their goals - their lives - their relationship - when Suleikas cancer returns - how they both deal with all of lifes responsibilities - while facing an unforseen crisis that turns their worlds upside down - a movie piece of filmmaking created with much love - a testament to the power of hope - of lasting dreams - and how to create a loving relationship that weathers all that lifes complexities have to offer - better or worse - wonderfully done - a must-see -

Suleika and Jon are each incredible, multi-talented artists and we see that in this film. But beyond their talents, we see the incredible people they are and the incredible love that they share with each other and with the world all while going through tough challenges with her health. I cried throughout this movie. It's been a while since a show... and these two beautiful people...moved me like this. Thank you for sharing this, for being who you are, and for showing us what's possible when you open your heart and allow yourself to be vulnerable. I will watch this again and I urge others to watch it.