Round Midnight (1986): Dexter Gordon, Jazz, and One of the Decade's Most Overlooked Masterpieces - The 80s Movie Podcast

Round Midnight (1986): Dexter Gordon, Jazz, and One of the Decade's Most Overlooked Masterpieces - The 80s Movie Podcast

Author: Edward Havens November 10, 2022 Duration: 17:47
In this episode of The 80s Movie Podcast, host Edward Havens revisits Round Midnight (1986), Bertrand Tavernier's acclaimed drama about music, friendship, and redemption. The film stars jazz legend Dexter Gordon as an aging saxophonist living in Paris. However, declining health and alcoholism threaten both his career and his future. The story follows an unexpected friendship that offers hope during his darkest days. Along the way, we explore how Tavernier drew inspiration from the lives of jazz greats Lester Young and Bud Powell. In addition, we examine Gordon's remarkable performance and the contributions of Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and other legendary musicians. The film captures the spirit of jazz through live performances and authentic storytelling. As a result, it stands apart from traditional Hollywood music dramas. At the same time, we discuss why Round Midnight remains one of the essential jazz films ever made. Furthermore, we look at its critical acclaim, Academy Award recognition, and lasting influence on music-focused cinema. Whether you love jazz or simply appreciate great filmmaking, this episode revisits a moving and often overlooked masterpiece from the 1980s.

Edward Havens, a film historian and former critic, hosts The 80s Movie Podcast, offering a deep and curated exploration of cinema from that decade. This isn't just a surface-level recap of famous blockbusters, though those certainly have their place. Instead, the podcast serves as a guided tour through the entire ecosystem of 1980s filmmaking. Listeners will hear episodes dedicated to the obscure distribution companies that once shaped what played in theaters, and rediscover movies that have slipped from popular memory. The conversation naturally expands to profile the iconic stars and visionary directors who defined the era's unique aesthetic. Havens draws on his background to provide context and insight, treating each film as a piece of a larger historical tapestry. Tuning into this podcast means gaining a richer understanding of why the 1980s remain such a distinct and influential period in visual storytelling. It’s for anyone who loves the texture of film history, from the forgotten gems to the cultural touchstones, all examined with a knowledgeable and engaging perspective. The show carefully balances nostalgia with revelation, ensuring every episode reveals something new about a seemingly familiar landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The 80s Movie Podcast
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Rude Boy (1980): The Clash, British Punk, and a Changing Britain [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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