Is The Cry of Jazz Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1959)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1959, The Cry of Jazz represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary, Music category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Filmed in Chicago & finished in 1959, The Cry of Jazz is filmmaker, composer and arranger Edward O. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary, Music are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Filmed in Chicago & finished in 1959, The Cry of Jazz is filmmaker, composer and arranger Edward O. Bland's polemical essay on the politics of music and race - a forecast of what he called "the death of jazz." A landmark moment in black film, foreseeing the civil unrest of subsequent decades, it also features the only known footage of visionary pianist Sun Ra from his beloved Chicago period. Featured are ample images of tenor saxophonist John Gilmore and the rest of Ra's Arkestra in Windy City nightclubs, all shot in glorious black & white."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by George Waller, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Documentary, Music genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Edward Bland is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 34 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Cry of Jazz truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, Music, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.9/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Cry of Jazz explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1959 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Edward Bland respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Cry of Jazz serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of George Waller or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Cry of Jazz is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.