For over four decades, Luther Vandross has captivated audiences with his smooth tenor and heartfelt lyrics about love and joy. With over 40 million records sold worldwide and 13 platinum albums, he became a beloved figure among Black listeners. But Vandross had dreams of expanding his fanbase and achieving crossover success. Now, his remarkable journey is chronicled in the upcoming documentary “Luther: Never Too Much,” directed by award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter.
Premiering as an official selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival on January 21, the documentary delves deep into Vandross’ life and career. It showcases his musical talent and explores the personal moments that shaped him as an artist. Through interviews with family, friends, musicians, collaborators, and industry insiders, Porter paints a comprehensive portrait of the multifaceted performer.
“This documentary goes beyond being just a music film,” says Porter, who is a two-time Sundance alumna. “It’s an opportunity to give Luther the recognition he deserved in life. It means everything to me.” With 101 minutes of carefully curated footage, Porter captures Vandross’ essence as a loving, determined, and humorous professional who was deeply committed to his craft.
The documentary also sheds light on Vandross’ journey in the music industry. From his early days as a studio musician, working with legends like David Bowie and Aretha Franklin, to his own rise to stardom, Vandross left an indelible mark on the music world. Despite facing challenges such as weight struggles, loneliness, and rumors about his personal life, Vandross remained dedicated to his artistry and brought joy to millions of fans around the world.
Director Dawn Porter, along with her team at Trilogy Films, approached the production with a collaborative spirit, mirroring Vandross’ approach to his own music. The film’s director of photography, Bryan Gentry, created a visually stunning experience, while musician Robert Glasper composed the score in real-time during the editing process, infusing the film with the perfect musical backdrop.
Executive producers Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, alongside Raindog Films, acquired the rights to Vandross’ story and worked alongside the director to create a film that celebrates his legacy. “His music is timeless,” says Turner. “We wanted to remind people how great he was and make something that the culture can be proud of.”
Through “Luther: Never Too Much,” audiences will discover the man behind the music and gain a deeper understanding of Vandross’ artistic brilliance. “His life was a celebration of art, friendship, and love,” says Porter. “This documentary is a gift to his fans and those who are yet to discover his incredible talent. It’s truly special.”
To learn more about “Luther: Never Too Much,” make sure to check out the Sundance Film Festival and stay updated with F5 Magazine.
Source link: F5mag.com