“Paris Blues” is a 1961 drama film about two American jazz musicians who find love and inspiration in Paris. The film stars Paul Newman and Sidney Poitier as saxophonists whose lives are forever changed by their encounters with two women. Set against the backdrop of the city of lights, this film is a poetic tribute to the power of music and romance. Featuring a memorable soundtrack by Duke Ellington, “Paris Blues” is a classic tale of ambition, desire, and self-discovery.
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Review
In the 1961 film “Paris Blues,” jazz music takes center stage amidst a backdrop of stunning Parisian scenery. Directed by Martin Ritt, the film tells the story of two American jazz musicians, played by Sidney Poitier and Paul Newman, who find themselves caught up in a whirlwind romance with two Parisian women.
The film’s storyline is driven by the love affairs between the four main characters. Poitier’s character, Eddie Cook, falls for a sophisticated French bookstore clerk named Lillian, played by Diahann Carroll. Meanwhile, Newman’s character, Ram Bowen, falls for Connie Lampson, played by Joanne Woodward.
The plot thickens as Eddie and Ram face external challenges that threaten to derail their romantic pursuits. Eddie contemplates leaving Paris to return to America and pursue other opportunities while Ram struggles with an alcohol addiction that jeopardizes his relationship with Connie.
It is through the lens of jazz music that we see these characters navigate their various challenges. For Eddie and Ram, jazz represents a way of life – a passion that they both share deeply. In one pivotal scene in the film, Eddie reflects on his love of jazz: “Jazz is just about the only thing I can honestly say I’ve ever been serious about.”
Indeed, it is clear throughout the film that jazz music provides both an escape and a foundation for these characters. The score of “Paris Blues” is filled with classic jazz standards performed by some of the era’s most beloved musicians.
It is worth noting that “Paris Blues” was released at a time when civil rights issues were at the forefront of American politics. Poitier’s casting as one of the film’s leads was significant in that it represented a step forward in Hollywood’s representation of people of color onscreen.
In terms of its reception upon release, “Paris Blues” was met with mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its performances and score while others criticized its lackluster storyline and pacing.
Despite any criticisms the film may have faced, it still holds a special place in the hearts of jazz enthusiasts and romantic film fans alike. With its stunning Parisian scenery, electric jazz score, and nuanced performances from its talented cast, “Paris Blues” remains a beloved classic in the world of cinema.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 98
- Release : 1961-09-27
- Genre : Romance, Drama, Music
- Cast : Paul Newman as Ram Bowen, Joanne Woodward as Lillian Corning, Sidney Poitier as Eddie Cook, Diahann Carroll as Connie Lampson, Louis Armstrong as Wild Man Moore
- Crew : Duke Ellington as Music, Alexandre Trauner as Art Direction, Walter Bernstein as Screenplay, Jack Fitzstephens as Sound Editor, Christian Matras as Cinematography
- Popularity 8.115
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Monmouth, Pennebaker Productions, Diane Productions
- Summary : During the 1960s, two American jazz musicians living in Paris meet and fall in love with two American tourist girls and must decide between music and love.
- Tagline : A love-spectacular so personally exciting, you feel it’s happening to you!
