No list of the most recognisable, memorable and beloved singers of all time can be considered valid without the inclusion of Luther Vandross. So, it’s mildly surprising that it’s taken until now — almost 20 years after his passing — for there to be a definitive documentary about the life and legacy of the soul and R&b legend. Thankfully, veteran documentary filmmaker Dawn Porter is more than up to the task, carving out a celebratory space for us to revel in his timeless music while sensitively illuminating the man behind it.

Helpfully steered by first-person interviews with Vandross’ close friends and collaborators like Fonzi Thornton, Carlos Alomar and Robin Clark, we are first taken on a journey through how Luther learned his craft and refined his style. Cutting his teeth on the likes of Sesame Street — the archival footage Porter utilises here is sensational — coming up with catchy jingles for...