Watch Flock Of Four

Flock of Four is a 2017 film set in Los Angeles in the 1950s. It follows four teenagers who work together to sneak out of their respective homes to attend the Central Avenue Jazz Festival. It stars Braeden Lemasters as Joey, Uriah Shelton as Bobby, Isaac Jay as Clive, and Dylan Riley Snyder as Carl. The film begins with Joey, a high school student and aspiring jazz musician, playing saxophone alone in his room. He dreams of playing at the Jazz Festival but can't afford a ticket. Meanwhile, Bobby, his friend from school, is struggling with the pressure of his father's expectations to follow in his footsteps as a doctor. In order to escape their mundane lives, the two sneak out to the festival, where they meet Clive, a talented trumpet player, and Carl, a rich kid who is also interested in jazz.

As the four participate in the festival's lively performances and after-parties, they come across a challenge when they find out that Duke Ellington's saxophonist has lost his instrument. Determined to seize the opportunity, Joey convinces the band to let him play Duke's saxophone, and Bobby, Clive, and Carl join in on the action. However, their newfound fame and the revelry that follows may threaten their families and their futures.

Flock of Four is unique in its representation of a period in American history that is often romanticized but rarely explored, portraying Los Angeles’ role in the world of jazz through the struggles of its young protagonists. The film blends elements of coming-of-age stories with fascinating historical and cultural details, such as the segregation of Central Avenue or Duke Ellington's involvement in the conflicts that arose from it. Its musical score features original recordings by renowned jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington, featuring a combination of his own improvisation with the recreated sounds of jazz legends such as John Coltrane and Miles Davis.

Throughout the film, the characters also face various challenges that test their relationships and beliefs, such as Joey's strained relationship with his mother, who disapproves of his passion for music, or Bobby's difficult journey towards accepting his true calling. These conflicts add a layer of depth and emotional resonance to the film, making it more than just a period piece but also a heartfelt commentary on identity, race, and art.

One of the most impressive aspects of Flock of Four is its visual style, which captures the vibrant colors and textures of the 1950s while also incorporating modern techniques and perspectives. Director Gregory Caruso utilizes a mix of handheld cameras, drone shots, and other experimental techniques to create a dynamic and immersive viewing experience. The film also features an impressive cast of up-and-coming young actors, all of whom embody their characters with authenticity and charisma.

Overall, Flock of Four is an excellent film that successfully blends historical accuracy, cultural significance, and artistic vision to create a unique masterpiece. With its outstanding musical score, charismatic performances, and compelling storyline, it is a must-see for anyone interested in jazz or coming-of-age stories, as well as anyone who appreciates a well-crafted and engaging cinematic experience.

Flock Of Four is a 2018 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2 and a MetaScore of 48.