Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser
1989VOTE NOW
| Warner Bros. | Release Date: October 1, 1989 |
Summary:
A documentary film about the life of pianist and jazz great Thelonious Sphere Monk. Features live performances by Monk and his band, and interviews with friends and family about the offbeat genius.
Genre(s):
Biography, Music, Documentary
Runtime:
90 min
For fans of Monk's music, the film is a must-see. [20 Jan 1990, p.C09]
Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser is quite probably the finest documentary about jazz ever made. [08 Dec 1989, p.C]
Numbers abound ('Round Midnight and Pannonica are just two), and the film addresses the mysterious psychological malady that shortened Monk's career. Has anyone ever been more fun to watch play than Monk? [26 Oct 1990, p.3D]
The film does slow down at times and presents only tantalizing hints of Monk, the colorful character. Yet it's a must-see introduction for anyone who can handle their jazz without sugarcoating. [16 Mar 1990, p.G16]
The film unfortunately does a poor job bringing any perspective to Monk's complex music and personality, but it is a remarkable record of his performance style and relationship with other musicians. [02 Mar 1990, p.12]
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