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Make It Soul

Make It Soul

Representation Score

6.0/10

Good

2018

Director

Jean-Charles Mbotti Malolo

Runtime

15 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Make It Soul is a culturally significant animation that centers Black historical figures as the primary drivers of the story. By focusing on James Brown and Solomon Burke, the film highlights the intersection of artistry and social ability to act during a pivotal era in American history. The film's greatest strength lies in its exceptional representation of Black excellence and ability to act. It effectively uses the 1965 Chicago setting to showcase Black cultural monuments, challenging traditional historical perspectives by framing music as a tool for social influence. However, the narrative remains narrow in its demographic scope. The focus on male-dominated musical spheres and the absence of explicit LGBTQ+ or disability-related storylines limit its broader multi-layered reach.

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Category Breakdown

Does Make It Soul have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit depictions of LGBTQ+ characters or identities that go beyond the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Make It Soul portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on male icons such as James Brown and Solomon Burke. While the high-stakes setting suggests professional ability to act, female character arcs are not specified.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Make It Soul?

Excellent

The film excels by centering Black excellence and ability to act. It disrupts Anglo-centric musical canons by highlighting the social power and identity of Soul music legends.

How does Make It Soul represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film explores the transformative power of art against oppressive structures. It uses the 1960s setting to critique social constraints through cultural empowerment.

Does Make It Soul include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of characters navigating physical, neurodivergent, or mental health conditions within the provided narrative.

Present on Screen

  • Exceptional representation of Black excellence and ability to act.
  • Effective use of historical context to explore racial identity.
  • Strong focus on the transformative power of cultural art.

Limited or Absent

  • Lack of explicit LGBTQ+ representation or character identities.
  • Limited focus on female characters within the musical industry.
  • No visible representation of disability or neurodiversity.

Official Synopsis

Chicago, winter 1965. The Regal Theater hosts James Brown and Solomon Burke, two monuments of Soul music. Backstage, everyone's under pressure. But in 1960s America, both men know their music has unexpected powers.

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