Academy Award Winner – Best Documentary Feature
Millions know their voices, but no one knows their names. Morgan Neville shines a spotlight on the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the 21st century. Triumphant and heartbreaking in equal measure, the film is both a tribute to the unsung voices who brought shape and style to popular music and a reflection on the conflicts, sacrifices and rewards of a career spent harmonizing with others. Along with rare archival footage and a peerless soundtrack, 20 Feet From Stardom boasts intimate interviews with Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Mick Jagger and Sting to name just a few. However, these world-famous figures take a backseat to the diverse array of backup singers whose lives and stories take center stage in the film. – Vancouver International Film Festival 2013
Director: Morgan Neville. USA, 2013. Language: English. 90 minutes. Cert: 12A.
The highest-grossing US documentary of 2013 arrives here with rave notices and an Academy Award attached. For one night only, Morgan Neville’s charming, feel-good picture shines the spotlight on the lesser-seen back-up vocalists recounted by the title. Some, like Gloria Jones, are startlingly glamorous. Others, like Merry Clayton, should have been contenders. Almost all, tellingly, are ministers’ daughters who honed their dazzling ranges in gospel choirs. – Irish Times
Joyous and inspiring – Daily Telegraph
