Film Overview"New Orleans" is an American musical drama movie released in 1947. Directed by Arthur Lubin and produced by Oliver Drake and Jules Levy for United Artists, this film is a rare endeavor into the world of jazz, celebrating the origins and evolution of this distinctively American music genre set in the city where it all started.
The story of "New Orleans" provides a vibrant depiction of the birth and development of jazz music in New Orleans, Louisiana. Distinguished artists Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday, making excellent acting debuts, lend their talent to the film, integrating both musical efficiencies and significant functions.
Story and SettingThe story of "New Orleans" centers around the character of Miralee Smith, depicted by Billie Holiday, who sings in a bordello, and jazz cornet gamer Nick Duquesne, played by Arturo de Cordova. The subplot involves a romantic relationship in between a gambler and the racially discriminative daughter of a respected and wealthy household, which adds a layer of socio-political commentary to the film.
Set in the middle of the lively life of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the movie's musical scenes show performances in different places, varying from whorehouses, bars, street parades to grand carnival balls. It depicts the various socio-cultural scenes where jazz was born and established, showing both its Black origins and its power to join people across racial divides.
Performances and MusicBillie Holiday's remarkable efficiency as a singing bordello house maid is excellent, and she shines in her performances of timeless jazz numbers. Her duet with Louis Armstrong on "Do You Know What It Means (To Miss New Orleans)" is especially poignant, including depth to her character's story.
Louis Armstrong, one of the leaders of jazz music, impresses in his dual function as a star and musician. He brings authenticity to the movie, both in his portrayal of a jazz artist and his dazzling musical efficiencies, showcasing his special vocal design and virtuoso trumpet playing.
Impact and Legacy"New Orleans" stands as a homage to the origins and evolution of jazz music and its long-lasting cultural significance. The movie not only functions as an entertaining musical drama but also as a historic and musical record of a pivotal era in American music.
Despite combined vital reception upon its release, the film has given that gained gratitude for its historic significance and the exceptional musical efficiencies from Armstrong and Holiday. It remains a valuable file of the time and a celebration of the New Orleans music scene.
The movie is likewise noteworthy for its commentary on racial problems and prejudice, a rather daring move for that period. The representation of the battles of Black musicians and the resistance they dealt with from an elitist society includes another layer of depth and implying to the movie.
In conclusion, the movie "New Orleans" is a captivating mix of drama, history, music, and social commentary. With fantastic performances from some of the greatest jazz musicians of the time, a rich storyline, and a major focus on racial divides, it handles to remain a remarkable piece of movie theater history.
Top Cast
