Going to Mars

Poet and activist Nikki Giovanni, at 80, continues to challenge convention in both life and art. As she promotes a new book of poetry, battles breast cancer, and rebuilds her relationship with her son, she pushes back against a traditional documentary approach, famously declaring, “I remember what’s important and I make up the rest.”

Filmmakers Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson create a vivid portrait infused with her poetry, narrated by Taraji P. Henson, and featuring memorable moments from Giovanni's life, including her 1971 conversation with James Baldwin. The film won the 2023 Sundance Grand Jury Prize (U.S. Documentary).