American Symphony

critic Reviews

, 94% Certified Fresh Tomatometer Score
  • More than a standard musician's documentary, American Symphony uses its behind-the-scenes access to present a portrait of courage and creativity.
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Robert LevinNewsday
    It's not just for Batiste fans. There have been few better movies about the creative process.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Brian TallericoRogerEbert.com
    This is a film that captures how art isn’t just how we heal&#59; it’s how we live.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Ben KenigsbergNew York Times
    While some of the backstage material has an official feel, the documentary does not shy from showing private moments.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Randy MyersSan Jose Mercury News
    Both Batiste and Jaouad put their faith and trust in Heineman, and the result is a candid testament to an unconditional love that’s threatened by cancer but defined by one remarkable couple’s commitment to get through it together.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Brian LowryCNN.com
    American Symphony plays more like a series of snapshots than a complete picture -- or perhaps more aptly, an unfinished symphony punctuated by lovely, graceful notes.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Amy NicholsonFilmWeek (KPCC - NPR Los Angeles)
    This is off base for [director Matthew Heineman], but he brings this great cinematic scale to it.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Nate Tinner-WilliamsBlack Catholic Messenger
    It’s clear the film spared no expense in following Batiste during the year 2022, as he explored the contours of his musical inspiration while battling personal challenges in and out of the public eye.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Frederic and Mary Ann BrussatSpirituality & Practice
    A love story about how the creative process creates both music and healing.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Jennie KermodeEye for Film
    Batiste and Jaouad are intensely grounded – they have to be – and as such, their humour and their joy have greater weight.
    Read full article
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Dennis SchwartzDennis Schwartz Movie Reviews
    Pleasing documentary--a well-conceived biopic on the multi-talented musician Jon Batiste.
    Read full article