Cityscape headed down to the boutique Deluxe Cinema at The Tannery to check out Amazing Grace. The concert film of Aretha Franklin is a breathtaking and hair-raising performance that needs to be seen to be believed. Barely a word is spoken by the gospel queen throughout, the music speaks for her.

The 1972 performance was filmed at New Temple Baptist Mission Church in Los Angeles over two nights and this is the first time it’s been released to the public. The footage was held back due to technical issues, but we’re so glad that it has been released for our viewing pleasure. Her unique and captivating voice filled the theatre as she sang alongside the Southern Californian Community Choir and Reverend James Cleveland, and the result was beautiful, harmonic melodies. The film shows the audience enjoying themselves and getting swept up with the music, clapping, singing and encouraging Franklin throughout. This is undoubtedly one of the most powerful and moving gospel performances to date. It depicts raw emotion from all involved, and is unquestionably one to see on the big screen.

You can see Amazing Grace in cinemas from September 5.