The Poetry of Lucille Clifton is a soul-stirring biographical drama that brings to life the remarkable journey of one of America’s most celebrated poets. The film traces Lucille Clifton’s life from her modest beginnings in Buffalo, New York, to her rise as a groundbreaking voice in literature, capturing her struggles, triumphs, and the enduring power of her words.
The film opens with young Lucille (played by Aunjanue Ellis) listening to her mother’s folktales and her father’s accounts of African American history, setting the stage for her poetic sensibilities. As the narrative unfolds, we see her early struggles with poverty, the loss of her mother, and the challenges of being a Black woman in America. The story takes a transformative turn as Lucille discovers her voice through poetry, penning her first groundbreaking collection, "Good Times", which earns her national acclaim.
Clifton’s life is portrayed with a focus on her ability to find beauty in the everyday and power in her heritage. Through key moments—such as her reading “homage to my hips” at a feminist rally or teaching young poets at a university—we witness the impact of her words on a generation searching for identity and truth.
The film’s visual style mirrors the simplicity and depth of Clifton’s poetry. Minimalistic cinematography, interwoven with dreamlike sequences of Lucille reciting her iconic works, evokes the quiet power of her language. Moments such as the writing of “won’t you celebrate with me” after the death of her mother are rendered with emotional intensity, offering a glimpse into her resilience and capacity for joy amidst hardship.
The ensemble cast, featuring Viola Davis as Clifton in her later years, delivers heartfelt performances that capture the grace and grit of Clifton’s character. Original music by Terence Blanchard underscores the film, blending soulful jazz with spoken-word poetry, creating an evocative and immersive atmosphere.
The Poetry of Lucille Clifton is more than a biopic—it’s a celebration of language, identity, and the enduring human spirit. A cinematic ode to one of America’s greatest poets, the film leaves audiences reflecting on their own lives, histories, and the beauty of the written word.
