Watch Duke Ellington: Jazz from Newport, Brussels, 1973

Duke Ellington: Jazz from Newport, Brussels, 1973 is a lively and entertaining biopic that explores the life and career of one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, Duke Ellington. The film transports viewers to the Newport Jazz Festival in 1973, where Ellington and his orchestra put on a jaw-dropping performance that is considered one of the most legendary concerts in the history of jazz.

The movie begins with a brief introduction to Ellington and his early years in music. Director Peter Bull traces Ellington's journey from his childhood in Washington D.C. to his rise as a bandleader and composer in the 1920s and 30s. We see how Ellington's unique sound and sophisticated arrangements revolutionized the jazz genre, and how he became one of the most celebrated musicians of his time.

The heart of the film is the footage of Ellington's performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in Brussels in 1973. The concert is a tour-de-force that showcases Ellington's immense talent as both a pianist and conductor. The film captures the energy and excitement of the event, taking viewers on a journey through Ellington's most iconic songs, including "Take the A Train," "Mood Indigo," and "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)." The camera work is intimate and immersive, allowing viewers to feel as though they are right there in the audience, experiencing the music firsthand.

Throughout the film, we also hear from Ellington's contemporaries and collaborators, who shed light on the man behind the music. Interviews with musicians such as Billy Taylor and Jimmie Hamilton provide insight into Ellington's creative process and his legacy in the jazz world. We learn about the challenges Ellington faced as a black musician in a predominantly white industry, and how he used his art to push back against racial stereotypes and injustice.

While the film is primarily focused on Ellington's music, it also delves into his personal life and relationships. We see glimpses of his family and his home life, as well as his love affairs and friendships with other musicians. These moments humanize Ellington and help us understand the man behind the music.

One of the standout moments of the film is when Ellington takes to the stage to perform his classic composition, "Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue." As the band plays through the opening notes, Ellington begins to improvise on the piano, building on the melody and teasing the audience with his virtuosity. The energy in the room is electric, and as the piece reaches its climax, the audience erupts in applause and shouts of admiration.

Overall, Duke Ellington: Jazz from Newport, Brussels, 1973 is a must-see for fans of jazz music and anyone interested in exploring the life and career of one of America's most iconic musicians. The film's stunning visuals, excellent interviews, and electrifying concert footage all come together to create a portrait of an artist who changed the face of modern music. Whether you're a die-hard Ellington fan or a curious newcomer, this film is sure to leave you tapping your feet and humming along to some of the greatest jazz music ever written.

Duke Ellington: Jazz from Newport, Brussels, 1973 is a 1973 music movie with a runtime of 53 minutes.