Watch A.K.A. Doc Pomus

A.K.A. Doc Pomus is a 2012 documentary film that tells the little-known story of famed American songwriter and performer Jerome Solon Felder, better known by his stage name, Doc Pomus. The film is directed by William Hechter and Peter Miller and features interviews with Pomus' family, friends, collaborators and admirers, as well as rare archival footage and recordings.

The film traces Pomus' life and career from his early years as a Jewish kid growing up in Brooklyn to his rise as one of the most celebrated songwriters of the late 20th century. Along the way, viewers learn about his struggles with disability, illness, and personal challenges, as well as his deep commitment to social justice and the civil rights movement.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is Pomus' unconventional path to success. Unlike other songwriters of his era, Pomus did not come from a privileged background or have formal training in music. Instead, he drew on his experiences growing up in the rough and tumble world of 1940s Brooklyn, where he developed a unique style that combined blues, gospel, R&B, and rock and roll.

Over the course of his career, Pomus wrote or co-wrote some of the most memorable songs of the 20th century, including "Save the Last Dance for Me," "This Magic Moment," "Little Sister," "Viva Las Vegas," and "Lonely Avenue," among many others. He collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from Elvis Presley and Ray Charles to B.B. King and Lou Reed, and his songs have been covered by hundreds of performers across multiple genres.

The film offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of songwriting, as Pomus' collaborators and friends discuss the inspiration and meaning behind some of his most famous tunes. It also sheds light on the complex relationships between artists, producers, and record companies, and the challenges of navigating the music industry in a time of great change and upheaval.

Another notable aspect of the film is its exploration of Pomus' personal life. Despite being confined to a wheelchair for much of his adult life due to polio, Pomus had a reputation as a ladies man and a party animal. He was married several times, and his relationships with his wives and children were often fraught with tension and drama.

However, the film also reveals a softer side to Pomus, highlighting his deep love for his family, his sense of humor, and his generosity towards his friends and collaborators. It also underscores his commitment to social justice and civil rights, and his efforts to use his music as a tool for healing and unity in a divided world.

Overall, A.K.A. Doc Pomus is a captivating and moving exploration of one of America's greatest songwriters. It provides a rich and nuanced portrait of a man whose life and music continue to inspire and resonate with audiences today. Whether you are a die-hard fan of Doc Pomus or simply interested in the history of popular music, this film is not to be missed.

A.K.A. Doc Pomus is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5 and a MetaScore of 83.