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Few artists defy easy summary the way Sun Ra does. The composer, bandleader, poet, and philosopher claimed he was from Saturn. He led his Arkestra for over 40 years, blending big-band jazz, electronic experimentation, cosmic philosophy, and theatrical performance into something wholly unique.

Filmmaker Christine Turner’s new documentary Sun Ra: Do the Impossible dives into the artist's life and legacy, drawing from a vast archive of film, music, and writings to capture a man who refused to fit into any box. Turner spoke with The Straight about the challenges of portraying a figure so mysterious, why Sun Ra matters now more than ever, and what she learned along the way.

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