Nina (2016)

Contrary to the last review, this movie was terrific! It showed Miss Simone's difficulties in life without excusing them, moving back and forth to explain why she was behaving a certain way. It showed the history of how she got to those feelings and actions. And then it showed her glory, which was her music. Miss Saldana was incredibly brave to take on the music of an icon. And, she did quite well. Her emotions while singing and the way she used her voice were wonderful. Anyone knowing this music would understand why she performed this way. Taking on the life of a legend is very difficult, but this crew did a great job. Kudos to all!

Because, many were personally involved in Miss Simone's life, it is easy to understand their annoyance; however, as a person that appreciates Miss Simone's music, I put her on her own pedestal but; I must, in the other hand, contemplate, in total impartiality of judgment, Miss Zaldana's performance, her singing was extraordinary and deserves to be valued independently. There is no comparison possible, for they are both different performers, and as such, must be valued separately. Perhaps, in relation to the portrayal of the character, there were marked unsubstantiated facts, this belongs to the screenwriters and playwrights or whoever. One must be fair and judge the acting and the singing of the artists.

I just have seen the movie and I also have read a lot of debates around it. In my opinion, all that "Zoe is not black enough"seems unbelievable - so many actors are using make-up and prosthetics when playing biopics and none was creating such debate. Due to this movie I discovered Nina Simone ( I honestly was not familiar with her music before), I watched a lot of Nina's songs after the movie, and appreciated a lot her music . I also liked a lot how Zoe interpreted the song "Black is the color" minute 35 of the movie) - I have seen all youtube versions interpreted by various artists but Zoe's is the best in my opinion. Yes, Zoe performed, it's mentioned ... I am sorry that this well done biopic was transformed in a political debate...art should be above this.

Zoe Saldana did an excellent job, she did capture Nina's essence. Perhaps the story is fictional, and the nurse bit is quite a liberty, however, Zoe helps to bring Nina to a new generation. Her makeup is appropriate, it is not offensive. She gives a nuanced and fine performance. Sometimes it is nice to see a softer more human side of someone known in many ways as a "Militant Icon." Great job Zoe. We get to see hints of Nina's weakness in her dealings at the hospital and the human effects of having to be a strong presence during her trials and tribulations. For those who call Zoe's makeup ugly what is ugly about it? I think some of the fictional liberties are fun, I like the romantic soap opera version of Nina, moments of the lighter spirit and times. Nina is beautiful as is Zoe.