Chops

Watch Chops

  • NR
  • 2007
  • 1 hr 27 min
  • 7.8  (137)

Chops is a 2007 documentary film that explores the world of high school jazz bands, specifically the music program at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida. The film follows several talented young musicians as they prepare to compete in the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition, a national contest held annually at Lincoln Center in New York City.

The film is directed by Bruce Broder, a veteran producer and filmmaker known for his work on documentaries about music and culture. It features interviews with several prominent jazz musicians, including Wynton Marsalis, Ron Carter, and Terence Blanchard, who share their experiences as young musicians and offer insights into the world of jazz.

As the film begins, we are introduced to the students of the Douglas Anderson jazz band, a diverse group of talented musicians who are passionate about their music. We see them in rehearsal, working tirelessly to perfect their performances for the upcoming competition. The film also introduces us to the band's director, Vernon Watters, an experienced jazz musician who is dedicated to nurturing his students' talents.

Throughout the film, we get to know several of the students in more detail. One of the film's primary subjects is trumpeter Douglas Mealy, a gifted musician with a troubled personal life. We follow Douglas as he struggles to balance his passion for music with the challenges in his personal life, including his mother's battle with cancer.

The film also introduces us to several other students, including saxophonist David Glasgal, bassist Neal Caine, and drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. Each of these young musicians is incredibly talented, and we see them working hard to hone their skills and perfect their performances for the competition.

As the students prepare for the Essentially Ellington competition, we see them overcoming numerous obstacles. They must learn to work together as a team, navigate the day-to-day challenges of being high school students, and overcome their own personal struggles. Through it all, their love of music keeps them motivated and focused.

One of the most compelling aspects of Chops is its exploration of the world of jazz. The film offers an inside look at the techniques and skills that go into creating great jazz music, as well as the challenges that young musicians face as they pursue a career in this complex and demanding art form. The interviews with Marsalis, Carter, and Blanchard provide valuable insight into the history and culture of jazz music, and help to contextualize the experiences of the young musicians we see on screen.

Another strength of the film is its portrayal of the spirits of the Douglass Anderson students. They are shown as bright and resilient, working through different personal struggles to pursue their passion for jazz music. The film successfully keeps them as engaging and likable characters, whose stories the audience will want to follow.

Overall, Chops is a moving and inspiring look at the world of high school jazz bands. Its focus on the emotional lives and personal struggles of the young musicians makes it a relatable and engaging film, while also providing a valuable glimpse into the world of jazz music. Whether you are a fan of jazz or simply appreciate stories of personal growth and triumph, Chops is a documentary that is well worth watching.

Chops is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.

Chops
Description
Where to Watch Chops
Chops is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Google Play and YouTube VOD. Some platforms allow you to rent Chops for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2007
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 27 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.8  (137)