The world continues to honor Chadwick Boseman’s life and legacy with tributes, posthumous awards, art, and more. The prolific actor died in August 2020 from colon cancer, a diagnosis that he chose to keep private. Netflix is continuing this celebration of his profound artistry and impact with Chadwick Boseman: Portrait of an Artist. The documentary features Boseman’s mentors and collaborators and is set to release on April 17.
A new trailer begins with Chadwick Boseman’s voice stating that others may call him an actor but he calls himself an artist. The clip then goes into high-praise from some of the best in the business; the features include Viola Davis, Phylicia Rashad, Danai Gurira, and others. The actors and filmmakers fondly reflect on his love for the craft and his vibrant spirit.
In one scene, Davis says others had to “step up” when they in his presence. They all speak on his incredible capacity to elevate the material, gaining a deep understanding for the truth, and who he was as a person. Commentary about Chadwick Boseman intersperse with his own voice. He talks about connecting with what his character is going through to make it real for him.
We certainly got to witness this brilliance through films like Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Black Panther, 42, and Da 5 Bloods, among others. His performance in the former earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor this year.
David Lee/Netflix
According to IndieWire, Chadwick Boseman: Portrait of an Artist will only stream for thirty days. And, this film will also have commentary from Spike Lee, Denzel Washington, Glynn Turman, and more. It will certainly be an emotional watch for his fans yet uplifting in many ways. Chadwick certainly got his share of love from fans and his peers during his lifetime. It’s beautiful to see this celebration continue in a documentary.