Mark Landsman’s spirited “Thunder Soul” offers a heaping helping of uplift while documenting the past triumphs and recent reunion of a predominantly black Houston high school’s singularly accomplished jazz stage band. Pic is a celebration of that ensemble, a group of African- American teens from a high-risk neighborhood who, during the 1970s, won nationwide competitions — and even released popular records, including a top seller titled “Texas Thunder Soul” — under the guidance of their indefatigably inspiring teacher/bandleader.
- Joe Leydon, Variety
