Film: Cadillac Records
Cast includes: Adrien Brody (The Pianist), Jeffrey Wright (W.), Columbus Short (Stomp the Yard), Eamonn Walker (ER), Mos Def (Be Kind Rewind), Beyoncé Knowles
Genre: Historic-based drama
In brief: Rolling out like a documentary, we’re taken back to the beginning of Chess Records. Muddy Waters moves to Chicago from Mississippi, and Leonard Chess (Polish Jewish immigrant, Lejzor Czyz) struggles to open a music club in Chicago’s south side. The year is 1947. While the music club is floundering, Leonard comes up with another idea and asks Muddy to sign on with him to make records. The big incentive is a brand new Cadillac. As Chess Record grows, many new artists are signed on and rewarded with new Cadillacs… Little Walter, Howlin’ Wolf, Chuck Berry and Etta James… among others. (Actually Howlin’ prefers to keep his old pick-up truck.) Bridging the transition between blues, R&B and early rock & roll, Chess Records was an important force in music into the late 60s.
This movie should be enjoyed for what it gives you, and forgiven for what it doesn’t. Historic accuracy and an in-depth understanding of the artists are just two factors that the filmmakers have thrown overboard. On the other hand, it’s very entertaining, and its narrative follows the acceptance arc of “Race” music from niche market to mainstream.
I won’t say this is the best of the movies* that focuses on black music, but it’s definitely a fun ride. With a mix of vintage and new recordings, the soundtrack is really sweet for R&B lovers. Beyoncé records the Etta James songs, and she’s a surprisingly good actress. I came away wishing the movie were a mini-series instead of just 109 minutes, but at least it left me wanting more.
* Other great movies for those who enjoy mid-20th century black music are The Commitments (fiction) and Standing in the Shadow of Motown (documentary).
3 popped kernels
Popped kernels for excellent music, good nostalgia, good casting, interesting story.
