I love biographies and especially being immersed in series and films centered around creatives and their stories. A few music-based favorites that I selected have not only shed light on various cultures but also inspired countless other films and series. Many are indie productions. They brought forth an eclectic
range of musical experiences – from captivating documentaries to powerful fictional narratives. It is a journey that transcends genres and eras, exploring the extraordinary lives of iconic musicians in both fact and fiction. From adaptations of books to groundbreaking films that inspired future works, this collection of films and series showcases the diverse landscape of musical experiences, highlighting the transformative power of music.
*Girls From Ipanema Brazil Netflix
This Brazilian drama series is set in the vibrant 1950s Rio de Janeiro and revolves around a young woman who breaks with tradition and dreams of opening her own nightclub. It explores themes of love, friendship, and resilience while showcasing the diverse musical genres that define Brazil's cultural identity.
*Cadillac Records US Prime Video Apple TV
Based on the man behind the music, Leonard Chess in 1950s Chicago, who started his own record company
and launched the careers of Etta James, Beyonce, and many others. click here
*Maestro in Blue Greece Netflix
This contemporary series is one of my recent favorites. It is set on the picturesque island of Paxos, Greece, directed by and starring the talented Christopher Papakaliatis, as a renowned conductor who is hired to create a post-pandemic music festival in the idyllic setting. The romantic drama series with a stellar cast, immerses viewers into life on the island and the beauty of music, and local traditions, as he navigates through love, ambition, and self-discovery amidst the mesmerizing backdrop of the azure sea.
*Schultze Gets The Blues Germany Prime Video
Edging toward retirement, a German Polka player is transformed when he hears Cajun Zydeco music on the radio. So inspired he travels to Louisiana to learn how to play. A testament to music, this heartwarming and life-affirming film is a road trip like no other, click here
*Round Midnight US Prime Video
This atmospheric Academy award-winning story of an American expatriate jazz musician featuring
legendary saxophonist Dexter Gordon in the lead is accompanied by a great soundtrack,
a must for jazz lovers. click here
* Echo in the Canyon US Prime Video
This documentary takes viewers on a nostalgic musical journey through the iconic Laurel Canyon music scene of the 1960s. It features interviews with renowned musicians and explores the cultural impact and enduring legacy of the artists who shaped the era's folk-rock sound. click here
*Searching for Sugar Man South Africa MAX Prime
This gripping documentary unravels the mysterious story of Sixto Rodriguez, a folk musician from Detroit who became a legend in South Africa despite being unknown in his own country. It follows two fans as they embark on a quest to discover the truth behind Rodriguez's disappearance from the music scene. click here
*Don't Look Back US MAX Prime Video
A landmark rock documentary, it chronicles the legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan's 1965 concert tour in the United Kingdom. It offers a captivating glimpse into Dylan's artistic evolution, his interactions with the media, and his profound impact on the folk and rock music genres. click here
*45 RPM Spain Netflix
Set in Spain during the 1960s, this drama series follows the rise of a young record executive and his journey to revolutionize the Spanish music industry. Filled with intrigue, romance, and nostalgia, it offers a gripping portrayal of the era's music scene and the societal changes it reflected.
*Hallelujah US Netflix Prime Video
This film is a documentary that explores the life and music of legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen.
It delves into his career, inspirations, and creative process, offering a deep insight into the man behind the music.
*Across The Universe England MAX Prime Video
Combining elements of a musical and a love story, this film transports viewers on a psychedelic journey through the turbulent 1960s. With a soundtrack composed of iconic Beatles songs, it intertwines music, romance, and social commentary to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. click here
*La Vie en Rose France Prime Video
Marion Cotillard gives a mesmerizing performance in this award-winning biopic of the legendary
Chanteuse, Edith Piaf as her life evolves from singing on the streets of Paris to an internationally revered artist. click here
*The Eddy France Netflix
Set in modern-day Paris, this drama series revolves around a struggling jazz club and its owner as he navigates personal and professional challenges. Featuring captivating performances and an eclectic jazz soundtrack, it offers a nuanced exploration of music, identity, and human connection.
* Callas Forever France Amazon Video
This documentary offers a mesmerizing portrait of renowned opera singer Maria Callas, showcasing her extraordinary talent, intense personal life, and enduring impact on the world of classical music.
Through rare archival footage and interviews, it delves into the complexities of her artistry and the sacrifices she made for her craft. click here
*Cabaret US Amazon Video Prime Video
Based on the novel of Christopher Isherwood and set in 1930s Berlin, this film depicts the vibrant and sensual world of the Kit Kat Klub, where its eccentric performers confront the looming threat of fascism. With a captivating musical score and choreography by the legendary Bob Fosse, it explores the life of Sally Bowles and themes of love, politics, and the struggle for authenticity in a rapidly changing society. click here
*Bird US Prime Vides Amazon Video
This biographical film tells the story of legendary jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker, “ Bird” tracing his meteoric rise to fame, his struggles, and his groundbreaking contributions to Jazz. It paints a vivid portrait of a complex and influential artist who revolutionized the genre. click here
*Dancing on the Edge England Prime Video PBS Passport
Set in 1930s London, this drama series follows a jazz band as they navigate racial tension, oppression, and the pursuit of success in a society on the brink of change. Filled with captivating performances and a richly atmospheric soundtrack, it explores the transformative power of music during a tumultuous time. click here
*Backbeat UK AMAZON VIDEO
This film is an interesting glimpse into the early days of the Beatles when they were working-class kids, emerging out of the Cavern Club in Liverpool to go on tour to Hamburg. While there, they met a group of eccentric artists and a woman photographer named Astrid Kirchherr, She became involved with Stuart Sutcliff and had a profound impact on the band, influencing their signature style and photographing them for some of their album covers.
Her unique perspective and artistic vision captured the essence of the band, giving them a visual identity that would have a major impact on the band and shape their future. click here
*Hipsters USSR Prime Video
This multi-award-winning Russian musical film is set in the 1950s and follows a group of rebellious
young people who embrace Western fashion and jazz music, defying the constraints of Soviet society.
Full of colorful visuals and infectious musical numbers, it offers a vibrant celebration of youth,
freedom, and the quest for self-expression. click here
*Mo' Better Blues US Prime Video
Mo' Better Blues is a 1990 film directed by Spike Lee, telling the story of a jazz musician named Bleek Gilliam
starring a young Denzel Washington. The film explores his struggles to juggle his career, and personal
issues while showcasing the vibrant music scene and culture of the time. With its focus on themes such as love, friendship, and artistic ambition, Mo' Better Blues provides an introspective and entertaining look at
the complexities of life as a musician. click here
*The Umbrellas of Cherbourg France Max Prime Video
This French musical romantic drama starring a young Catherine Deneuve, tells the story of two young lovers separated by circumstances beyond their control. Set in the colorful world of Cherbourg in the late 1950s, it unfolds through beautiful melodies and dazzling visuals, capturing the bittersweet essence of missed opportunities and enduring love. click here
* The Commitments Ireland Prime Video
Based on a novel by Roddy Doyle, this gem of a film about an Irish singer that puts together a Dublin
band based on his love of the 1960s soul music of Sam Cooke and Otis Redding . A film with an amazing heart, great music and rated R for language and R-eally funny ! click here
My personal preference for streaming is Roku.
BOOKS & VIDEOS
"The Commitments"
by Roddy Doyle
"Goodbye to Berlin "
by Christopher Isherwood
Isherwood's classic story of Berlin in the 1930s
and the inspiration for Cabaret.
