Some inconsequential dialogue and an overly dramatic story sandwiched between some entertaining jazz performances. Actually, the story is manufactured only to bring jazz to the big screen.
And the music is the real reason to watch this film. It includes some really nice arrangements and solos, especially by Louis Armstrong. Billie Holliday also appears.
There are also some interesting cameos, e.g. Shelly Winters. But the music is the real star. It feels quaint now to consider that this film practically apologizes for bringing jazz to society's elites. It uses classical music as a bridge to suggest that jazz might be worth appreciating.
And the music is the real reason to watch this film. It includes some really nice arrangements and solos, especially by Louis Armstrong. Billie Holliday also appears.
There are also some interesting cameos, e.g. Shelly Winters. But the music is the real star. It feels quaint now to consider that this film practically apologizes for bringing jazz to society's elites. It uses classical music as a bridge to suggest that jazz might be worth appreciating.