Hitsville: The Making of Motown - what is the new documentary and when can I see it?

24 September 2019, 15:55

Motown is one of the most iconic record labels of all time. The name alone evokes an air of class and respect.

But how did it all come about and who were the people involved?

The 25 greatest Motown songs ever, ranked

A new documentary will explain just that, as creator Berry Gordy - who only this week announced his retirement at the age of 89 - is joined by the likes of Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder to look at back at the hit factory.

Here is all the important information you need about the film:

1. What is the Hitsville documentary?

   Hitsville: The Making of Motown is a film looking back at the history of Motown Records, and how Berry Gordy turned the independent label from Detroit into a worldwide success.

   It features exclusive interviews with the label’s founder, Berry Gordy, as well as many of its iconic artists.

   It also includes rare performances and behind-the-scenes footage taken from Motown’s secret vaults.

   The film was directed by British filmmakers Benjamin and Gabe Turner, the team behind The Class of 92 and I Am Bolt.

2. Who appears in the film?

   The movie features new interviews from:

   Berry Gordy
   Smokey Robinson
   Stevie Wonder
   Mary Wilson
   Holland-Dozier-Holland
   Martha Reeves
   The Jacksons
   Neil Young
   Sam Smith
   John Legend
   Jamie Foxx

   It also has archive interviews with the likes of Marvin Gaye, Norman Whitfield and Diana Ross.

3. When is the film released?

   The documentary has already aired on Showtime in the US, but it will be shown at UK cinemas for one night only on Monday, September 30.