Is Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2016)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise (2016), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "A celebration of Dr. Maya Angelou by weaving her words with rare and intimate archival photographs and videos, which paint hidden moments of her exuberant life during some of America’s most defining civil rights moments. From her upbringing in the Depression-era South to her swinging soirees with Malcolm X in Ghana to her inaugural speech for President Bill Clinton, we are given special access to interviews with Dr. Angelou whose indelible charm and quick wit make it easy to love her."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise, Maya Angelou delivers a performance that anchors the emotional weight of the film. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2016, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 112 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.