Watch Ornette: Made in America

Ornette: Made in America is a musical documentary film from 1985 that follows the life and career of legendary jazz musician Ornette Coleman. Directed by Shirley Clarke, the film explores the innovative style of Coleman's music and his cultural influence against the backdrop of 20th century America. Throughout the film, viewers are treated to an intimate look at Coleman's musical genius and his impact on the jazz scene. The film explores a wide range of Coleman's work, from his early days as a touring musician to his later collaborations with symphony orchestras and other musical luminaries.

The film also delves into Coleman's personal life, including his upbringing in Fort Worth, Texas, and the racism and discrimination he faced as a black musician in America. Through candid interviews with Coleman and his family members, we gain insight into the challenges he faced and the perseverance that enabled him to become a groundbreaking musician.

One of the film's most compelling aspects is the way it blends archival footage of Coleman's performances with interviews and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his creative process. We see Coleman collaborating with fellow musicians, experimenting with new sounds and techniques, and pushing the boundaries of jazz in ways that would inspire countless musicians to follow in his footsteps.

Another highlight of the film is the way it situates Coleman's music within the larger context of American cultural history. We see how his work reflects the social and political changes of the time, from the civil rights movement to the counterculture of the 1960s and beyond. The film also explores the influence of African and African American musical traditions on Coleman's style, as well as his own impact on the music of subsequent generations.

Overall, Ornette: Made in America is a rich, visually stunning documentary that provides a fascinating look at one of the most innovative figures in jazz history. Whether you're a longtime fan of Coleman's work or simply interested in the creative process of a musical genius, this film is sure to captivate and inspire.

Ornette: Made in America is a 1985 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 82.