A Deeply Moving and Thought-Provoking “Soundtrack”

Written By Khutso Segooa

Director Johan Grimonprez (at right) listens to an exchange during the post-screening Q+A session.

The United Nations Association of New York co-presented a special screening of the acclaimed film Soundtrack to a Coup d'État, on January 7 at the Film Form cinema complex in downtown New York. The director Johan Grimonprez was present for the Q+A session after the film. Below is a review of the film written by one of UNA-NYC's Summer Scholars Khutsu Segooa.

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Johan Grimonprez's Soundtrack to a Coup d'État is not just a film - it is an experience. The film plunges viewers into the chaotic, vibrant, and often dark interplay between African liberation, Cold War politics, and the transformative power of jazz. It tells the story of Congo's fight for independence in 1960 while exploring how jazz became a force for resistance and change. After witnessing the film, one cannot help but feel both exhilarated and haunted by its revelations.

The film draws you into a chaotic moment in history, mixing archival footage, powerful speeches, and stirring music. It connects big events - like Nikita Khrushchev banging his shoe at the UN - with personal stories, from figures such as jazz musicians Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach, who used their art to protest injustice.

At its core is Patrice Lumumba, Congo's first democratically elected leader, whose assassination was backed by Western powers. Rather than presenting him as a martyr, the film captures his vision and the betrayal he faced. It also captures phenomenal women like Madame Andrée Blouin, Lumumba's advisor, who played a central role, showing how vital her contributions were to the revolution.

Interestingly, music is not just a background in this story - it's a main character. Jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Nina Simone reflect the power of art to inspire change and resist oppression. The film brilliantly weaves their music with political speeches, showing how both forms of expression are deeply tied to activism.

Grimonprez did not shy away from calling out the hypocrisy of Western countries, exposing their role in colonial crimes while claiming to champion democracy. His use of detailed research and real accounts makes this film as much about accountability as it is about history.

Soundtrack to a Coup d'État is deeply moving and thought-provoking. It stays with you, making you reflect on how history's struggles still shape the world today.

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For more information, visit our event page for the screening