Sun Ra
ActingAbout Sun Ra
Sun Ra (born Herman Poole Blount, legal name Le Sony'r Ra; May 22, 1914 – May 30, 1993) was an American jazz composer, bandleader, piano and synthesizer player, poet and philosopher known for his experimental music, "cosmic philosophy," prolific output, and theatrical performances. For much of his career, Ra led "The Arkestra", an ensemble with an ever-changing name and flexible line-up.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Sun Ra reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 15 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Sun Ra's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 20% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Sun Ra remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore: Film, Stories & Images from the Mississippi Records and Alan Lomax Archive, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Sun Ra Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Sun Ra's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Sun Ra.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | The Magic City: Birmingham according to Sun Ra | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2025 | Sun Ra: Do the Impossible | Self (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2025 | Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music | Self (archive footage) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2023 | Betye Saar: Drifting Toward Twilight | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 2017 | Rebirth Is Necessary | Self (Archive Footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2013 | I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore: Film, Stories & Images from the Mississippi Records and Alan Lomax Archive | Himself | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2008 | Jazz Evolution | Self - Organ | Average | Similar → |
| 2005 | Sun Ra: Brother From Another Planet | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1984 | Mystery Mister Ra | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1980 | Sun Ra: A Joyful Noise | Himself | Average | Similar → |
| 1974 | Space Is the Place | Himself | Average | Similar → |
| N/A | John Cage Meets Sun Ra | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
| N/A | Sun Ra Arkestra: Live in West Berlin 1983 | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | Spaceways | Himself | Average | Similar → |
| 1966 | The Magic Sun | - | Average | Similar → |
Sun Ra - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Sun Ra?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Sun Ra is "I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore: Film, Stories & Images from the Mississippi Records and Alan Lomax Archive" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Sun Ra acted in?
Sun Ra has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Sun Ra?
Other notable films include "Sun Ra: Brother From Another Planet", "Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music", and "Sun Ra: A Joyful Noise".