All That Jazz
All that work. All that glitter. All that pain. All that love. All that crazy rhythm. All that jazz.
Overview
Joe Gideon is at the top of the heap, one of the most successful directors and choreographers in musical theater. But he can feel his world slowly collapsing around him - his obsession with work has almost destroyed his personal life, and only his bottles of pills keep him going.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
"All That Jazz" is a semi-autobiographical film inspired by director Bob Fosse's own experiences with overwork, drug use, and heart problems while simultaneously directing the Broadway musical "Chicago" and editing the film "Lenny". The film is a darkly humorous and intensely personal reflection on his life and career, grappling with themes of death and legacy.
- Roy Scheider's captivating performance as Joe Gideon, a man battling his demons, is both raw and charismatic.
- The film's innovative and visually stunning choreography and editing create a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.
- The unflinching exploration of mortality, ambition, and the price of artistic success offers a deeply resonant and thought-provoking narrative.
- The musical numbers are not just entertaining; they are integral to the storytelling and character development.
Fun Facts
- The character of Angelique, the angel of death, is believed to be based on Fosse's ideal woman and a representation of his own mortality.
- Many of the dancers and performers in the film were actual Broadway performers, lending authenticity to the musical sequences.
- The film's editing, which utilizes quick cuts and fragmented narratives, was highly influential and helped shape the style of music videos in the 1980s.