"Not just a great music documentary but an exhilarating time capsule" - Washington Post

2022 Oscar Winner for Best Documentary

Crafted from footage of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival – an event so filled with stars from soul, R&B, blues and jazz they called it the Black Woodstock – Summer of Soul is a breathtaking chronicle of Black culture in a pivotal moment.

In his acclaimed debut as a filmmaker, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful and transporting documentary—part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture and fashion.

Featuring Stevie Wonder, Mahalia Jackson, Nina Simone, The 5th Dimension, The Staple Singers, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mavis Staples, Blinky Williams, Sly and the Family Stone, and The Chambers Brothers.

Summer of Soul
Directed by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson
Length 118 Minutes
2021
Rated PG for violence

About Deckchair Cinema
The Polygon is pleased to present Deckchair Cinema. Always by donation, courtesy of BMO Financial Group, you are invited to enjoy classic films under the stars on Cates Deck out front of the Gallery. Attendees can make themselves comfortable by bringing their own blankets or low chairs. Seating available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A concession stand at The Gallery will offer tasty snacks and off-sale beverages from local wineries and breweries to enjoy al fresco on the publicly licensed deck. Films start at sundown, music courtesy of some of the city’s best DJs begins at 7pm each Thursday. Your donation also includes admission to the gallery to see our summer exhibition Ghosts of the Machine.