Jimmy Somerville: Queer Rebel of British Pop

An intimate, music-filled portrait that balances the joy of performance with the pain of struggle, leaving you moved and inspired.

Directed by

Olivier Simonnet

Genres

Documentary, Music

Starring

Jimmy Somerville, Félix Maritaud, Sarah-Jane Morris

Overview

With his soaring falsetto and magnetic yet understated stage presence, Jimmy Somerville burst onto the 1980s new wave scene, making the world dance to songs rooted in struggle and resilience. From the harsh realities of Glasgow’s working-class neighborhoods to the challenges of growing up gay in a hostile world, and the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis, Somerville transformed pain into anthems of freedom. First with Bronski Beat, then The Communards, and later as a solo artist, he became both rebel and diva—the unmistakable voice of a generation fighting for equality. Through intimate stories from those who have stood by him for four decades, this portrait reveals a rare artist who has never wavered in his convictions.

How it feels

Earnest, uplifting, melancholic and warm. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Identity, music, class, sexuality

Content

Mild violence, sexual content and language. No gore.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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Watch the trailer on YouTube (opens in a new tab)