Watch Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes

Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes is a 2014 documentary music film that captures the spirit, soul and essence of jazz legend Sonny Rollins. Directed by Dick Fontaine, the film showcases the life, music and legacy of the Grammy-winning saxophonist Sonny Rollins. The film explores Sonny's personal and musical journey from his humble beginnings in Harlem, New York City to his rise to fame as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. The narrative is driven by a mix of interviews with the artist, his contemporaries and friends, archive footage, photographs and, of course, his music. These elements combined evoke a picture of not only a great musician, but also a great man.

Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes is a thoroughly researched and expertly crafted film that sheds light on the artistic brilliance of one of the most renowned jazz composers of the 20th century. The film begins with Sonny Rollins reflecting on the influence of his music on his personal life, and how it helped him through difficult times, particularly during the era of civil rights struggles in America. The documentary follows the development of the artist's style and sound, and explores the different phases of his career, from his early days in New York to his prolific period of the 1950s and 60s, and his eventual retreat from public life in the 70s and 80s.

The film features interviews from some of the biggest names in jazz music such as Ornette Coleman, William Parker, Roy Haynes, Branford Marsalis, and Bob Cranshaw, to name a few. Each of them shares their experience and insight into the life and work of Sonny Rollins. These interviews demonstrate the impact of Rollins' music on the direction of jazz and its continuing relevance in the contemporary music scene.

Throughout the film, Sonny Rollins reflects on his personal experiences, his relationships with people and his work with great musicians. The film gives viewers an inside look into the mind of a legend, and how his music has been a reflection of his own life experiences. The film also features performances by Sonny Rollins and other iconic musicians, both in their prime and from later in their careers.

One of the defining moments of the movie is a segment where Sonny Rollins takes a trip back to his childhood home in Harlem. He reflects on how his upbringing in the diverse neighborhood helped shape his music and his worldview, and how it brought him a sense of belonging during a time of great cultural and societal upheaval.

Ultimately, Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes is a film about art, music and the human spirit. It is a celebration of the life, talent, and legacy of a true musical genius who overcame adversity and personal struggles to be recognized as one of the greatest musicians of our time. The film expertly weaves in a number of themes, such as the constant reinvention of the artist, the role of family and community in shaping one's life, and the power of the arts to inspire and transform.

In conclusion, Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes is an insightful and engaging film that successfully captures the essence and legacy of an American music icon. Directed masterfully by Dick Fontaine, it is a must-see for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike. It not only shines a light on Rollins' exceptional career but on the evolution of jazz and American culture as a whole.

Sonny Rollins: Beyond The Notes is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.