Remaking History With the Sounds of Silence

[mjzee]

A silent movie about jazz?

When filmmaker Dan Pritzker first met with trumpeter-bandleader Wynton Marsalis, the objective was to discuss a proposed movie about the quasi-mythical "first" jazz musician, Charles "Buddy" Bolden. They instantly agreed on one point: Since so little is known about Bolden (only one photo and no music survive), you might as well make up something interesting about his life if you're going to tell a story about him.

But before Messrs. Pritzker and Marsalis were able to finish their film ("Bolden!" will get a theatrical release next year), they were sidetracked into making another movie about the birth of jazz that also blends truth and fiction. This film would be centered on a considerably more legendary figure, around whom they would construct a more elaborate mythology.

The result is "Louis," a 70-minute silent film about the early life of Louis Armstrong and his entry into the world of jazz. The movie began a five-city tour in Chicago on Wednesday, and will arrive at the Apollo Theater in Harlem on Monday. The performances feature live accompaniment courtesy of Mr. Marsalis and a 10-piece contingent of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, as well as classical pianist Cecile Licad.

More here:

WSJ

[Chuck Nessa]

Them Pritzker's have all kinds of money to throw around. Wish some would come my way.

[king ubu]

So they need ten pieces + Wynetone to imitate the Hot Fives?

[Lazaro Vega]

Always thought Armstrong's "My Life In New Orleans" would make a good film where the "lead" "character" would be the city of N.O. as much as the actor playing Armstrong.