USA | 2018 | Robert Clem

This new movie tells the story of how Black gospel quartet music became a primary source of what would eventually be known as rock & roll, helping to break down racial walls in mid-twentieth century America. The film features classic performance footage of the Soul Stirrers, Dixie Hummingbirds, Blind Boys of Alabama, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and many others. Quartet members give vivid accounts of how they “got over” in their performances: shouting, bending backwards, dancing, jumping off the stage—what came to be known as “gospel drama.” Has a 100% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes (as of 11/17). “Revealing and inspiring…An invaluable documentary which combines historical scholarship with thrilling glimpses of gospel singers.” –L.A. Times. Cleveland premiere. 87 min.

How They Got Over, a Cinematheque streaming exclusive, can be viewed online from 11/24 thru at least 2/17 via the link below. Doing so supports the Cinematheque. Screening fee is $10 and you have 72 hours to watch it.

https://watch.firstrunfeatures.com/products/how-they-got-over-at-the-cleveland-cinematheque