@radical making Nina Simone feature doc

FremantleMedia-backed US producer @radical.media is making a documentary about legendary soul singer Nina Simone.

The producer has cut a deal with Simone’s estate giving it never seen before footage of the singer performing as well as off stage.

The feature doc will tracer the singer’s journey from poverty in the American South, to her defining role in the civil rights movement, musical success and, finally, her self-imposed exile in France.

“Nina is right up there with Sinatra, Presley and Dylan as one of the most iconic musical artists of the 20th Century,” said Justin Wilkes, @radical.media president of media and entertainment. “Her family and estate will be invaluable partners as we’ve been given unprecedented access to weave together her fascinating story.”

“I’ve been waiting for many years to bring the true and complete story of my mom’s life to the screen”, said Simone, Nina’s daughter. “Together we will be able to preserve my mom’s cultural and musical legacy.”

@radical said it is in discussion with distribution partners.