5 Movies About Jazz Music That Every Fan Must See
In honor of Jazz Appreciation Month, we’re taking a look at five essential films about jazz music and the artists who create it. From documentaries to biopics, these movies offer a fascinating window into the world of jazz and its history.
Round Midnight
Round Midnight is a 1986 American tragicomedy film directed by Bertrand Tavernier, written by David Rayfiel and Tavernier, and executive-produced by Herbie Hancock, who also composed the film’s score.
The film stars DexterGordon as saxophonist Dale Turner,a character loosely inspired by Django Reinhardt, Bud Powell, and Charlie Parker. it also features François Cluzet andHerbie Hancock.
Round Midnight received largely positive reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes has a 91% rating, based on 22 reviews. The site’s consensus states: “Madlypassionate about jazz and filled with terrific music performances, RoundMidnight scratches any musical itch.”
The film was nominated for multiple awards including Best Actor in a Leading Role (Dexter Gordon), Best Director (Bertrand Tavernier), Best Music, Original Score (Herbie Hancock), Best Picture ( Arsène Sanchez), and Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen (David Rayfiel).
Bird
Bird is a 1988 American biographical drama film directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Forest Whitaker. The screenplay by Joel Oliansky is based on the life of jazz saxophonist Charlie “Yardbird” Parker, which he fictionalized.
Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser
In this documentary, Thelonious Monk is seen and heard in new ways, through never-before-seen footage and private recordings. The film captures Monk’s singular genius as a musician and offers insights into his complex character.
Miles Ahead
Miles Ahead is a 2016 American biographical drama film directed by Don Cheadle and starring Cheadle, Emayatzy Corinealdi, Keith Stanfield, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Ewan McGregor. The film focuses on different periods in the life of jazz musician Miles Davis.
Cheadle made his directorial debut with the film, which he also co-wrote with Steven Baigelman. It was shown in the Special Presentations section at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival. The film was released in the United States on April 1, 2016 by Sony Pictures Classics to positive reviews from critics.
Whiplash
This 2014 film tells the story of a drumming prodigy who is pushed to the brink of his abilities by an abusive jazz instructor. The film follows the student’s relentless pursuit of perfection, and the lengths he will go to achieve it. Whiplash is a must-see film for any fan of jazz music.
