An American Film Festival winner, this performance documentary explores the life, times, and music of Blues and Jazz pioneer Alberta Hunter, who became a legend first in Europe and fifty years later, in the United States. Complete with a full-length concert live from the Cookery in Greenwich Village, rare vintage footage and interviews, this film captures the spirit of the "Jazz Age," while simultaneously showcases Alberta Hunter's timeless music, compelling the Los Angeles Times to call it "An exhilarating, moving portrait of an extraordinary woman."
Alberta opened her personal archives to Producer / Director Stuart Goldman and shared materials never seen before, as well as her last filmed interview prior to her death in 1984 at age 89. In addition to her own provocative and witty performances, this film, narrated by pianist Billy Taylor, features the music of her friends and colleagues Louis Armstrong, Eubie Blake, Bessie Smith, King Oliver, Paul Robeson and Fats Waller.
Known for her independent spirit and often naughty lyrics, after achieving success for over 40 years with starring roles on Broadway, international tours, and more than a dozen hits, including Downhearted Blues, which became Bessie Smith's biggest hit in 1923, Alberta left show business at age 62 to become a nurse. Twenty years later, at age 82 (the hospital thought she was 70), she was forced to retire. Still full of energy, she returned to singing and made a critically acclaimed comeback, making her more popular then in her heyday.
Selections include "My Castle's Rockin," "Two-Fisted Double-Jointed Rough and Ready Man," "Darktown Strutters Ball," "Downhearted Blues," "I've Got a Mind to Ramble," "Black Shadows," "I'm Havin' a Good Time," "Handy Man," "You're Welcome to Come Home," and "The Love I Have For You."
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