Something just didn't seem right. Was Miss Franklin forced to do this recording? She didn't smile, there was no joy upon her face. Her father was there and there was no reaction at all. This was incredibly sad to watch. It was like she was forced to do this by her controlling father.

This movie had me in tears at several moments! I have not seen anything this genuine for so long. Aretha’s delivery is holy as is her back up choir, the audience, and her chosen lead pastor. The choir director has an energy to be admired! I would have loved to hear him sing. At one point, Aretha’s delivery is so awe inspiring that an audience member actually seems to believe she is Jesus. I can’t wait to watch this again. Amazing Grace does not even begin to do this movie Justice. There is Aretha Franklin singing songs and then there is everyone else. Watch now!

This live performance transports you to the time and place in a way that no other live recording will ever do. This is one of Aretha's best.

The music is so good!

I wanted to get out of the theatre within ten minutes of the movie but I had to give it a full chance. Wasted time with Hollywood over exaggerated content

As documentaries go, this is a pretty straight forward one, showing the filming of a gospel concert with Aretha Franklin and the Southern Californian Community Choir in the early 1970s. The singing is undoubtedly great and its nice to see the atmosphere in the small, church, venue - its quite infectious even, although, obviously, in a good way!. The songs are quite atmospheric and I'd be surprised if you didn't find yourself tapping your toes to the various catchy tunes, such as 'Mary, Don't You Weep', 'What A Friend We Have in Jesus' and the titular 'Amazing Grace'. The picture is slightly grainy I suppose but then, of course, this was recorded some time ago and I guess you could say it adds to the sentimentality/nostalgic aspect of it. I thought it was a bit of a shame that there's no additional information about the singers life given alongside the performances - I suppose I assume that music documentaries will include more than 'just' the music itself but that's not to say that it's not a good, uplifting, entertaining and enjoyable musical performance because it is. I suppose I think of it more like a concert film than a music documentary as such. In any case, she certainly had a pretty amazing voice and she made the most of it. I appreciate and respect that, having seen this film. For fans of Aretha Franklin's music, I would most certainly recommend this, yes.

Aretha is a great singer, but as a movie, not that good.

A cultural history exhibit, in which there are moments when Franklin's voice gives you chills with her emotional power. Look for Mick Jagger in the church audience.

Step back in time and place to a live performance by Aritha Franklin - WOW

This really wasn't Aretha's film for me. I don't think it captured her full power, which is why it wasn't released when she was alive. Aretha is Aretha, though, and the magnitude of catching any of her performances in a time capsule is worthwhile. The real star of this one, the man I had to look up after because his charisma was undeniable, was Reverend James Cleveland. If you search for his live Gospel performances (you can find full captures of his Sunday Service online), you will be captivated by him and all his little vocal ticks like shushing the congregation. He is my Reverend from back in time, and I'm forever thankful for Aretha introducing me to him.

Amazing vintage footage from the 1970s of a younger Aretha going back to her roots in a Baptist church to sing with family & friends present

This is an insightful film into the talent and career path of one of the most talented singers of this era.

Great documentary which amplifies the vocal power and talents of the Queen of Soul ⚓⚓

I dig music biopics but there are so many better ones out there.

Smiles+ love+ admiration+ tears throughout the movie is my review. We have "church" in our own living room the entire time! Love it. 5-Star history for sure!!

It was a great musical experience.

It is a wonderful moment in history captured on film of an iconic singer at her best. If you love talented singers, gospel music and/or the queen of soul (Aretha) .... you are in for a treat.

Absolutely beautiful and moved me to tears.

Recording of the spellbinding performance which transcends the pared back simplicity of the visual.

It's hard not to be overpowered by the 1972 documentary featuring Aretha Franklin singing a gospel album. She's recording at the Reverend James Cleveland's church with his choir. Sydney Pollack, who was just a young director, was originally calling the shots. In 2010 and 2015 it was almost released, but it was blocked by Franklin. Finally, after her death the movie was released. It's immersive, and does what you're expecting. If you don't like the singer (and how could you??), or can't stand Gospel music then this is one you should stay away from. I shouldn't score these concert films, but this is about the best that can be done. Final Score: 6.0/10