Mr. SOUL! 2018
"Before Oprah...Before Arsenio...There was..."
Dive into the electrifying story of *Mr. SOUL! (2018)*, a vibrant documentary that captures the revolutionary spirit of a groundbreaking television show in post-Civil Rights America.
Director: Melissa Haizlip
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mr. SOUL! (2018) about?
*Mr. SOUL!* tells the story of Ellis Haizlip, a charismatic pioneer who created a trailblazing TV show in the 1960s that put Black artists and activists front and center. It was a platform where music, comedy, and social justice collided, giving voice to a generation hungry for change. The film weaves together Haizlip's personal journey with the cultural impact of his groundbreaking program.
Who directed Mr. SOUL!?
*Mr. SOUL!* was directed by Melissa Haizlip, who masterfully blends archival footage with intimate interviews to honor her uncle's legacy.
Who stars in Mr. SOUL!?
The documentary features appearances and tributes from legends like Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, and Blair Underwood, alongside Ellis Haizlip himself.
Is Mr. SOUL! (2018) worth watching?
*Mr. SOUL!* is a must-watch for fans of music, history, and unfiltered storytelling. While not a mainstream blockbuster, its sharp focus on cultural revolution and representation makes it a standout in docuseries. If you love behind-the-scenes gems that pack emotional and intellectual punch, this 90-minute film delivers in spades.
How long is Mr. SOUL!?
The runtime of *Mr. SOUL!* is 90 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
Mr. SOUL! (2018) — The Untold Story of a Black Cultural Revolution on TV
Dive into the electrifying story of *Mr. SOUL! (2018)*, a vibrant documentary that captures the revolutionary spirit of a groundbreaking television show in post-Civil Rights America. Directed by Melissa Haizlip, this film follows her uncle, Ellis Haizlip—a trailblazing figure who fused politics, culture, and music into a single platform. On his trailblazing show, giants of Black American artistry, from Sidney Poitier to Stevie Wonder, found a stage to challenge stereotypes and celebrate Black excellence. With its infectious energy and sharp social commentary, *Mr. SOUL!* isn't just a glimpse into the past—it's a celebration of vision, resistance, and the power of television to change the world.
At its heart, *Mr. SOUL! (2018)* is more than a documentary; it's a cultural time capsule that blends humor, music, and activism into a seamless narrative. Haizlip's fearless approach to programming made his show a beacon for Black audiences, long before the era of viral talk shows. Interwoven with archival footage and heartfelt interviews, this film pays homage to a man who dared to redefine representation on screen while staying unapologetically himself.