Director Mark Landsman’s Thunder Soul (2010) is the kind of movie that sinks under your skin. You’ve seen the story before: a determined teacher looking to make the most out of his pupils, and a group of students who would have been lost without his guidance. I had this in mind, and walked in thinking that I knew what I was getting myself into. And then, something interesting happened. The film revealed itself to be much more absorbing, richer, and more fulfilling than other musical documentaries of its kind. It presented a colorful group of people, all of whom became the best at what they do: playing music. And even more incredible was that they were at the top of their field while still in high school. It’s a celebration of one man’s efforts to bring his students together through music, and present that celebration to a new generation.