Cast
View All
Ethan Hawke
as Chet Baker
Carmen Ejogo
as Jane/Elaine
Callum Keith Rennie
as Dick
Stephen McHattie
as Dad
Janet-Laine Green
as Mom
Tony Nappo
as Officer Reid
Janine Theriault
as Florence
Tony Nardi
as Nicholas
Katie Boland
as Sarah
Dan Lett
as Danny Friedman
Sophia Walker
as Real Sophia
Kevin Hanchard
as Dizzy Gillespie
Drew Davis
as Beau
Charles Officer
as Bowling Alley Dealer
Joe Cobden
as Actor Dick
Crew
Director
- Robert Budreau
Writer
- Robert Budreau
Producer
- Olivier Gauriat
- Jennifer Jonas
- Robert Budreau
- Jake Seal
- Leonard Farlinger
Reviews
Reno
> Behind this man's success there was a woman and other things.
This is not a bad semi-biographical music-drama with a little romance in it, but many of us have no idea of its existence because it is not a Hollywood. For me it was just an above average, because of the first 30 minutes. In those narrations it was very boring, you know a film needs a good opening and this film's first impression failed. But next one hour, till the final scene was much better. Except I hated the whispering dialogues which this film had everywhere.
I don't know who is Chet Baker, thanks to this film for introducing him to me. This story is no special compared to other biopics related to music and singing. Like fame and drugs taking over the career where one struggles to rise back from the fall. This is the same old crap, except it is a jazz theme, but everything was lightly portrayed without making much complication. I mean it centres only on the romance and music, everything else was never given preference. Except in parts where the couple seeks support from the outside world like the opportunities and meeting their parents.
The film focused only a certain stage of the life of Chet. It is very sad not knowing his earlier life as well as his Europe settlement in the later on which looks much more interesting than what they narrated in this. Ethan Hawke was great as usual and so his co-stars. There's no harm for once viewing, but some people feel it more depressing than enjoyable or entertaining. So the film is for the selected audience and make sure you're one of them before going for it.
6/10
Aug 4, 2016
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Born to Be Blue examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Robert Budreau 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 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Born to Be Blue took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Born to Be Blue shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Charlotte, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Born to Be Blue offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Il Divo and Che: Part Two explore similar territory, Born to Be Blue stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: September 13, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Revenue: $830,129
Where to Watch
