Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Uplifting docu spotlights legendary high school jazz band.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Thunder Soul
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In the mid-1970s, one of the country's top jazz bands was an all-black high school band from Houston: the Kashmere Stage Band. The band, led by Conrad O. Johnson Sr., aka "Prof," not only revitalized the predominantly African-American school, but it also revolutionized the entire concept of the stage band, which was at the time dominated by big-band arrangements played by white teens. With Prof's impossibly high expectations and his belief in his kids -- many of whom had never touched an instrument -- the Kashmere Stage Band brought in the funk and went on to win national competitions and even travel the world. More than 30 years later, one dedicated alumnus reunites the band to perform one last time for their aging, beloved Prof.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary, executive produced by Texas-born Jamie Foxx, is bittersweet and will make audiences wonder why they've never heard this amazing story. Why isn't there a Mr. Holland's Opus-like adaptation of what Prof did for these teens? Prof himself is an unsung musical genius who was only brought out of obscurity because a young funk-music historian convinced him to release a two-disc set of the KSB's best recordings. Director Mark Landsman captures Prof's charisma, even at age 92, and intersperses footage of the KSB band in the '70s with interviews with the now middle-aged players, the enthusiastic funk musicologist, and even a DJ who asked to sample one of the KSB's most famous pieces.
At a time when so many arts programs are on the verge of extinction, THUNDER SOUL expresses the importance of music in school. Prof's former students are so faithful to him that they fly back to Houston from all around the world to participate in a reunion concert just for him, even though he's almost too frail to attend. Tears will be shed as this group of late-40-something friends pick up their instruments again as a testimony to what an inspirational teacher can provide -- the belief that every student is worthy and capable of greatness.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Prof makes a difference in his students' lives. What are some other movies about exceptional teachers who go the extra mile for their kids?
What is the movie's message about music and the arts? What do you think of Prof's statement that a principal who wants to cut the arts should be fired?
Movie Details
- In theaters: September 23, 2011
- On DVD or streaming: January 31, 2012
- Cast: Jamie Foxx
- Director: Mark Landsman
- Inclusion Information: Black actors
- Studio: Roadside Attractions
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Great Boy Role Models , Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 83 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG
- MPAA explanation: brief language and momentary historical smoking
- Last updated: October 8, 2022
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