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Giving Voice 2020

Six gifted students participate in the August Wilson Monologue Competition, a challenging and inspiring program. Through the exploration of Wilson's celebrated plays like "Fences" and "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," they confront personal growth and discover profound connections to their heritage. The film highlights the students' dedication and the power of theatre to illuminate the African American experience throughout the 20th century.

Six gifted students participate in the August Wilson Monologue Competition, a challenging and inspiring program. Through the exploration of Wilson's celebrated plays like "Fences" and "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," they confront personal growth and discover profound connections to their heritage. The film highlights the students' dedication and the power of theatre to illuminate the African American experience throughout the 20th century.

Does Giving Voice have end credit scenes?

No!

Giving Voice does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Giving Voice

Explore the complete cast of Giving Voice, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for Giving Voice

See how Giving Voice is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Giving Voice stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

94

Giving Voice demonstrates a well-crafted documentary approach that highlights both technical proficiency and narrative clarity. Directors Stern and Villena employ precise editing and composed framing to underscore the emotional stakes of each audition. The film weaves archival footage and contemporary testimony into a coherent whole, ensuring consistent pacing and thematic momentum. Polished sound design and a curated score reinforce the documentary’s uplifting tone. Overall, the film stands as an inspiring and thoughtfully produced tribute to August Wilson’s enduring legacy.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Giving Voice

90
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, Giving Voice exhibits polished direction and understated cinematography that accentuates performers’ expressions and stage atmosphere. Editing choices create a balanced rhythm between audition segments and archival clips, while production design remains unobtrusive yet effective in situating viewers in rehearsal and theater spaces. Overall, the film’s technical execution is both assured and cohesive.

95
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character and emotion, the documentary captures nuanced performances and sincere interactions among students and mentors. Archival footage of August Wilson provides a personal anchor, while interviews reveal genuine emotional stakes for emerging actors. The film balances individual narratives with collective aspirations, fostering empathy for each participant. Overall, character portrayal feels authentic and resonant.

92
Echo Score

Story & Flow

In terms of story and flow, Giving Voice delivers a clear and engaging narrative that interweaves audition progressions with historical context. The pacing remains measured, allowing emotional moments to land without overstaying, and each segment contributes to a cohesive thematic arc celebrating artistic legacy. While following a conventional documentary structure, the film maintains originality through its focus on student journeys. Overall, narrative momentum remains consistently engaging.

88
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

When it comes to sensory experience, the film features a balanced soundscape and selective musical cues that reinforce emotional beats. Sound design highlights spoken performances and archival interviews without distraction, while visual style combines clean interview setups with atmospheric stage lighting. Overall, the documentary’s sensory elements support its uplifting and informative tone.

90
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

In terms of rewatch factor, Giving Voice delivers lasting appeal through its inspiring subject matter and thematic depth. While its format adheres to documentary conventions, emotional highlights and archival moments invite repeated viewings for deeper appreciation of student journeys and Wilson’s legacy. Overall, the film offers strong replay value for viewers interested in theatrical storytelling.

Rotten Tomatoes
review

100%

TOMATOMETER

review

67%

User Score

IMDb

7.0 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

64

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.6

Movie Insider

0.00/5

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Giving Voice

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Giving Voice. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Giving Voice | Official Trailer | Netflix

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