Watch Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things

Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things is a 2019 documentary film about the life and career of one of the most renowned jazz singers of the 20th century, Ella Fitzgerald. Directed by Leslie Woodhead, the film chronicles Fitzgerald's journey from a troubled childhood in New York to her rise as a jazz icon, who left an indelible mark on the genre.

The film is told through a combination of archival footage, interviews with Fitzgerald's friends, family, and colleagues, and reenactments of key events in her life. It explores her early days as a teenage singer, her creative partnerships with musical legends like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong, and the personal struggles she faced as a black woman in a predominantly white industry.

Perhaps most compellingly, Just One of Those Things explores Fitzgerald's internal battles with her own personal demons. The film recounts her struggles with addiction, family strife, and the pressures of fame, and reveals how these challenges affected her career and personal life.

In addition to Fitzgerald herself, the film features interviews with a number of her contemporaries, including Norma Miller, a dancer and fellow performer from Fitzgerald's early years, and Ray Brown Jr., the son of Fitzgerald's longtime bassist. Through these interviews, the film sheds light on the rich cultural and social context that defined Fitzgerald's music.

The film also explores Fitzgerald's efforts to use her platform for social change, highlighting some of the ways in which she challenged the status quo and advocated for those who were marginalized. It is a moving tribute to a woman who stood at the forefront of a musical and cultural revolution, and whose voice and spirit continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.

Overall, Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things is a captivating and enlightening portrait of a true American icon. Whether you're a longtime fan of Fitzgerald's music or simply curious to learn more about this remarkable woman, this film is a must-see. With its combination of archival footage, insightful interviews, and engaging storytelling, it offers a rich and rewarding window into a pivotal moment in American cultural history.

Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 64.