More thrilling news for our gallery artist Johan Grimonprez! He has won the Ensor for Best Documentary for his film Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat. Editor Rik Chaubet, who worked on the documentary, has been recognized as the Promise of the Year with support from BNP Paribas Fortis. His editing has been lauded for its innovative and poetic approach, effectively blending history and music into a captivating audiovisual experience.
Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat delves into the 1961 assassination of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, exploring the intricate connections between jazz music, geopolitical tensions, and colonial power dynamics during the Cold War. The film uniquely intertwines archival footage, personal videos, and Lumumba's speeches, highlighting the roles of jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie.
The documentary has received critical acclaim for its vivid storytelling and profound impact, with some critics praising its meticulous research and thought-provoking narrative. Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat is also in the running for Best Documentary Feature at the upcoming Academy Awards.
