Alvin Ailey was a trailblazing choreographer and a fearless artist, whose dance explored the Black American experience with grace, strength and unparalleled beauty.

Ailey captures the full contours of a brilliant and enigmatic man who, when confronted by a world that refused to embrace him, was determined to build one that would.

Director Jamila Wignot has crafted an intimate portrait featuring much of Alvin Ailey’s own voice, through previously unheard audio recordings, alongside interviews with those closest to him, and above all, stunning archive performance footage of his evocative choreography.