“It’s a remarkable film … crackling with energy, ideas and formal daring.” (Screen International)

One of the most highly acclaimed and original documentaries of the year, delving into the events leading to the 1961 assassination of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba. Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat masterfully intertwines political intrigue with the vibrant cultural backdrop of the time. Featuring the music of jazz legends including Nina Simone, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie and John Coltrane, the soundtrack underscores the era's intense emotions and aspirations.

As the Congo gained its independence, this monumental shift faced fierce opposition from Belgian authorities and other global powers, leading to Lumumba's tragic assassination. Sharp archival footage offers a visceral glimpse into this horrible chapter. Key moments include Malcolm X's meeting with Fidel Castro, Louis Armstrong's tour of Congo, and the aftermath of Lumumba's murder, with Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach's powerful protest at the UN Security Council. Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat exposes the malevolent forces of colonisation and resonates with contemporary relevance, reflecting on the enduring struggles for justice and autonomy.