Wonderful first- ever documentary on the pianist best known for composing "Misty"
There are probably 50 film documentaries on Louis Armstrong and probably as many about Duke Ellington but this is the first one about jazz pianist Erroll Garner. As the film's director explains in fine-minute "Director's Commentary - one of 4 short bonus features on the DVD - he heard Garner's classic song "Misty" while he was in film school and, in searching, found no full biography of Garner in either book or film form. He was lucky to find Garner's sister as a source of family stories about growing up in Pittsburgh and some early family photos. The project started in 1996 and wasn't completed until 2011. Director Brady was able to obtain extensive interviews with musician/author/"Tonight Show" host/comedian Steve Allen (a huge Garner fan) and jazz pianist (ragtime to bop) Dick Hyman. There are also interviews with record producer George Avakian, tap dancer Maurice Hines (who choreographed a piece dedicated to Garner) and Woody Allen. Jim Doran who wrote a book about Garner's music...
GREAT documentary on probably the greatest jazz pianist
A fascinating documentary on one of jazz music's greatest geniuses, featuring fine interviews with celebrities, family, and other jazz legends. A pleasure from start to finish. Thanks to the filmmaker for this timely and important work on one of jazz music's neglected giants. If you love Erroll Garner's amazing music, you will thoroughly enjoy!
Shallow portrait
This eulogy never delves below the surface. Some good concert footage and lots of beautiful music still make it worthwhile.
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