Amazing Grace

This is a short preview trailer. You can watch the entire film at no charge on the Folkstreams website. Folkstreams is a nonprofit whose mission is to find, preserve, contextualize, and stream documentary films on American folklife.

Watch the entire film at Folkstreams

Across time, oceans and cultures, "Amazing Grace" has endured as one of the most popular pieces of music in the English language. Its universal appeal inspired the acclaimed journalist Bill Moyers to tell the story of this song through the people who have sung it. It has been recorded by more popular artists than any other hymn. From pop singer Judy Collins and opera star Jessye Norman in New York, to Philadelphia gospel singer Marion Williams and Kentucky folk singer Jean Ritchie, these stirring, very diverse performances were recorded in stereo on locations all across America. Along with the music, the artists reveal the power that "Amazing Grace" has had in their personal lives, which makes the film a touching emotional experience.

  • Film by: Elena Mannes
  • Produced by: Elena Mannes
  • Editor: Donna Marino
  • Original Format: Film: 16mm
  • © 1990 Public Affairs Television, Inc.
  • 1h 10mins, Color