Year: 1958
Director: Bert Stern
Country: US
Language: English
The Calgary Film Festival didn't just show newer pictures; Jazz on a Summer's Day is a concert film from the 50's that was newly restored for its 60th Anniversary. Considered the first concert film ever made, Jazz on a Summer's Day paved the way for similar workslike Montery Pop (1968) and Woodstock (1970)
In 1958 photographer Bert Stern went to the Newport Jazz Festival and captured the fabled performances by an array of musical legends including; Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, Chuck Berry, Dinah Washington and Mahalia Jackson.
Funded by the National Film Preservation Board of the Library of Congress, the film restoration greatly enhances the original audio and visuals. It does a complete cleanup to where no markings, scratches, or grain is present. This film, while made 61years ago, looks as if it was shot today. You could show it next to any modern film & most audiences wouldn't be able to tell the difference from a technical aspect.
Jazz on a Summer's Day was a joy to watch. We are treated to a variety of performances by Jazz legends. We get to go backstage with some of them & get a feeling for their personality. We get to soak up a late 50's atmosphere that feels vibrant, youthful and full of energy.
We often view this era as a conservative time, but this picture shows us glimpses of the hippie 60's that has yet to come. Ultimately, I was transfixed & deeply moved by this impressive documentary.
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