Cast
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Neil Diamond
as Jess Robin / Yussel Rabinovitch
Laurence Olivier
as Cantor Rabinovitch
Lucie Arnaz
as Molly Bell
Catlin Adams
as Rivka Rabinovitch
Franklyn Ajaye
as Bubba
Paul Nicholas
as Keith Lennox
Sully Boyar
as Eddie Gibbs
Mike Kellin
as Leo
James Booth
as Paul Rossini
Luther Waters
as Teddy
Oren Waters
as Mel
Rod Gist
as Timmy
Walter Janovitz
as Rabbi Birnbaum
Janet Brandt
as Aunt Tillie
John Witherspoon
as M.C. Cinderella Club
Crew
Director
- Richard Fleischer
- Sidney J. Furie
Producer
- Jerry Leider
Reviews
MK40
Very disappointing. The main character, Jess Robin, is a self-centered and apathetic individual who walks out on his wife (telling her that he would only be gone for two weeks) to pursue a recording contract. He does not return home and instead quickly takes up with his agent, Molly, who he moves in with after telling his wife that he no longer wants a life as a canter. He shows no emotion toward her or anything that is meaningful to her.
After his father discovers that Jess is living with another woman and is divorcing his wife, his father disowns him. Jess cannot seem to connect with anyone in his life. He expects everyone to accept his choices, joyfully, thinking nothing of how he is destroying the lives of those who love him.
Molly discovers that she is pregnant with their child while Jess is abusing everyone around him as he struggles with the rejection of his father. He storms out of the studio and simply disappears for year with no explanation to anyone.
A family friend tries to reunite Jess with his father but he appears very reluctant.
His father finds forgiveness for Jess when Jess shows him a photograph of his baby boy. He reunites with Molly as if he never abandoned her. She is joined by his father is for Jess's big moment on stage at the end of the film.
Very unrealistic story with an unrealistic ending about a typical narcissist who only sees things in terms of how they affect him.
Sep 5, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Jazz Singer examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Richard Fleischer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Jazz Singer took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $13.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 161 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Jazz Singer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Frei, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Jazz Singer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ben-Hur and Contact explore similar territory, The Jazz Singer stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 17, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $13,000,000
- Revenue: $27,118,000
