Film / News
Aretha by Candlelight for International Women’s Day
Bristol’s Wandering Cinema celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day with a film of a concert in a church – screened in a church.
Historic St. Stephen’s Church is the venue for a candlelight screening of Amazing Grace. Shot by Sydney Pollack back in 1972, the film captures 29-year-old Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin’s performance with the choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles.
Technical gremlins and Franklin’s dissatisfaction with the result meant it remained on the shelf for decades. Producer Alan Elliott tried to release the film after Pollack’s death, but was sued at least twice by Franklin herself. Just months after her demise, however, Amazing Grace was in US cinemas. While the singer herself was adamant that it should never been shown, the release has been supported by her niece, Sabrina Owens, who represents the Aretha Franklin Estate. “This film is authentic and is my aunt to her core,” she insists.
is needed now More than ever
The screening takes place on Sunday 6 March. Doors open at 7:15pm, with the film on screen at 7:30pm. Go here for tickets. Bring your own snacks and drinks.
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