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Ellington
The man is larger-than-life, elusive. Pianist, composer, arranger, conductor, father of swing and superstar of the blues, the Duke is everywhere. For half a century, he has inspired, oriented, glided through all of Afro-American music. To bring him back to life, the filmmaker leapt at a once-in-a-lifetime chance : the reunion of his companions at the Festival of Vienna - summer 1999 - and the unforgettable Big Band that they dedicated to the memory of their boss who died a quarter of a century ago. The images of Duke Ellington's final recording, made in 1973, a year before his death, are the perfect example of the communion between the chief and soloists Joe Pass, Ray Brown and Louie Belsson. An indefatigable worker, Duke Ellington also had charisma, elegance and great generosity. All his life he promoted the cause of Black Americans. With his music. And for our delight.
France - 2000 - 51 mn - Betacam Digital - Colour and B&W
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