User Reviews

Whereas a documentary of this caliber on the direct-to-streaming aisle would incorporate your basic interviews and archival footage with little to no forethought, Soundtrack to a Coup d'État is a rallying cry within a musical odyssey. Hyperfast editing and a symphonic pace make this visual essay so special, resembling jazz's rigid but unforgettable structure. Vastly covering the Congo's struggle for independence (with jazz giants being the preface)- the inherent timeliness to today's genocidal crimes reflects a period not too astray from ours.

At times it may seem like the gargantuan presence of information overwhelms the viewer into submission, but rest assured the film continues its tapestry of bedazzlement all the way through. This is how historical documentaries should be made. Lessons will be learned, techniques will be seen. Enthralling from beginning to end, Soundtrack to a Coup d'État must not be missed. A charming, distinctive gateway for those yearning to learn more about deep-seated neocolonialism.

Watched this at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

I understand the main purposes and the importance of what the documentary is trying to explore and tell. While there are some wonderful graphic design presentation, conversations, and visual presentation, the 2 hour 30 minute runtime feels unjustified and the structure of the documentary feels messy.

Many of the themes and topics explored are interesting which themes of jazz, decolonization and the conflicts between the country is interesting. I enjoyed some of the musical sound choices and some of the discussions explored. But I found myself unable to fully invest to the story because it felt as if the filmmaker was creating a style over substance situation. Where certain aspects felt uncooked and a bit missing and it was focused too much on the technical aspects.

For 2 hours and 30 minutes, the documentary feels too stretched to be fully satisfied. Overall, good intentions but not for me.