After Bob Fosse suffered a massive heart attack while simultaneously editing “Lenny” and working on the Broadway musical “Chicago,” he began his next project about his personal life, his near-death experience, sleeping with random women and his troubled marriage with Gwen Verdon. The film I’m referring to is none other than “All That Jazz.”
Released in 1979, (same year Apocalypse Now came out) it received critical acclaim from critics and movie goers alike. Besides praise, the film made enough money at the box office. All That Jazz won four Oscars including “Best Original Score.” Unfortunately, it didn’t win “Best Picture.” “Kramer vs. Kramer” took home the ultimate prize. In 2001, All That Jazz was selected by the Liberty of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry. In 2014, the Crtierion Collection digitally restored the film on DVD/Blu-Ray as spine number 724.
As I mentioned on my previous articles on musical films, I’ll continue to watch and review selected ones in favor of prepping up for “Joker: Foile a Deux.” Although I’m not a big musical fan, but I’m doing this to keep myself occupied before I see Joaquin Phoenix & Lady Gaga sing and dance together as Joker & Harley Quinn.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you guys and gals a chance to see this masterpiece.
Strong & Weak Aspects
Strong: Roy Schneider, Jessica Lange & Ann Reinking all did a great job for their respective performances. It’s a darn shame Ann never participated in other films like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, working with Quentin Tarantino or Paul Thomas Anderson. Had she not passed away in 2020 and worked in more movies and shows, she would’ve gained further recognition besides performing on stage.
Bob Fosse did a superb job directing. He also co-wrote the script.
Musical and Dance Numbers are really good. Bob’s a professional in organizing choreography.
Cinematography captures tight shots along with good editing.
Costume Designs and Set Pieces reflect Joe’s predicaments.
Much of the story’s loosely based on Bob’s work and personal life. For instance, the Broadway musical, “NY/LA” is based on Chicago. He’s also influenced by Federico Fellini’s “8 1/2.” Heck, even the film’s titled is named after a song from the aforementioned musical. Alejandro “Al” González Iñárritu also took a similar approach for his epic surreal dramedy “Bardo.” Al must’ve saw All That Jazz for further inspiration.
Joe’s catchphrase is, “It’s showtime folks.” It was later referenced on an episode of “Better Call Saul.” The episode’s called, “Mijo.”
Stanley Kubrick’s mentioned. Back in 1979, he was working on a film adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Shining.”
Pacing wasn’t problem at all. I was hooked since the Opening dance number.
A then unknown Wallace Shawn appears as an assistant insurance man.
Weak: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Bob and his crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
All That Jazz is a masterpiece worth your spare time. Buy a copy of the film digitally restored by the Criterion Collection. If you’re fascinated with Bob Fosse’s life and career, check out Sam Rockwell’s portrayal in FX’s mini-series “Fosse/Verdon.” It’s on Hulu.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 