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Last Date

Last Date (1991)

Dec 13, 1991 1h 32m Documentary

A documentary about the weeks leading up to the early death of jazz legend Eric Dolphy. Centered around his last month alive and the titular record done in Holland with Misha Mengelberg and Han Bennink, the documentary traces his LA roots up through the last Charles Mingus tour that led Dolphy to stay in Europe in 1964. The interviews are with a host of contemporaries like Richard Davis, Ted Curson, Nathan Davis and those involved in the Last Date recording. The rare archival footage of Dolphy is riveting. The pictures provided by friends and family also show an intense young man whose future success was assured.

Directed by Hans Hylkema

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Hans Hylkema

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Thematic Analysis

Last Date represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Hans Hylkema 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1991, 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 Last Date took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1079 individual shots.
  • The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1991, when this film was released:
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Last Date shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike What Difference Does It Make?, which focuses more on action than character development, Last Date offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Every Night's a Saturday Night and Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) explore similar territory, Last Date 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 13, 1991
  • Runtime: 1h 32m