Mo' Better Blues

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Aleksandar D Spike Lee’s "Mo’ Better Blues" immerses viewers in the vibrant world of New York’s jazz scene, offering a compelling exploration of love, ambition, and artistic integrity. With its dazzling cinematography and masterful score, the film captures the improvisational essence of jazz while telling a deeply human story. Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Bleek Gilliam, a gifted but conflicted trumpeter, anchors the narrative with intensity and charm. He perfectly embodies a man striving for greatness while grappling with the sacrifices it demands. Wesley Snipes adds layers of complexity as his rival, while Spike Lee himself delivers a memorable turn as Bleek’s loyal yet flawed friend. The visual style is signature Spike Lee: bold colours, dynamic framing, and atmospheric lighting that bring the smoky clubs and charged performances to life. Terence Blanchard’s jazz score is exceptional, weaving seamlessly into the emotional and narrative beats of the film. Though deeply engaging, the film occasionally stumbles in its pacing and character development, leaving some relationships underexplored. However, these minor flaws hardly diminish its power as a lush, evocative meditation on the costs of genius and the struggle to harmonise personal and professional lives. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 12/30/24 Full Review Steve D Its treatment of women (among others) is a bit disconcerting, but the rest is wonderfully written and acted. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 03/01/23 Full Review Audience Member Spike Lee provides a hyper engaging visual and auditory background for his examination of the inner workings and power dynamic within a jazz quintet, as well as the multiple relationships being juggled by the band's leader. The film was well cast with Washington and Snipes playing competing band members and Spike Lee added value, doubling as the band's manager and failed sports gambler. Lee deserves even more credit for the visually appealing way this was shot, playing off the excellent soundtrack, creating a pleasing tone throughout, and at least one extremely memorable scene. I should also note how much I loved the opening of this film so it will be no surprise this landing was totally stuck in my opinion and thought the last five or ten minutes were pretty strong. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 01/20/23 Full Review Audience Member One of my favorite Denzel performances Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 11/08/20 Full Review Audience Member It's a smaller, personal story about a jazz musicians rise and fall. It features some really human and flawed characters, which is refreshing. And a wraparound theme of learning to be content with perceived mediocrity. As long as you're a good father, that's what counts. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 07/27/20 Full Review Audience Member One of the better musicals about live music, and the lives of the musicians particularly concerning the protagonist's and his selfish approach to life. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 02/19/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Mo' Better Blues

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