Backdrop preview Memphis '69 backdrop
Memphis '69

Memphis '69 (2019)

Jan 28, 2019 1h 12m Documentary Music

It’s the Summer of 1969. The temperature hovers around 105 degrees on a humid weekend in Memphis, Tennessee. It’s only been a year since the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. But on this particular weekend, everyone in town, all races, creeds and colors have come out for the Fourth Annual Memphis Country Blues Festival. The lineup is the most ambitious in years, welcoming blues masters like Bukka White, Sleepy John Estes, Furry Lewis and the 106 year-old Nathan Beauregard, coupled with more notable headliners like Rufus Thomas & The Bar-Kays, John Fahey and rocker Johnny Winter. One attendee that year was Gene Rosenthal, who brought along a couple of cameras, a small crew and left with 40,000 feet of color film that was left untouched for nearly 50 years….until now. ‘Memphis 69’ is a time capsule. If you’re a blues enthusiast, watching this film feels like you’ve opened up a treasure chest and discovered that you’ve hit the motherload.

Directed by Joe LaMattina

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Joe LaMattina
  • Gene Rosenthal
Producer
  • Lisa LaMattina

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Thematic Analysis

Memphis '69 represents a fascinating example of Documentary/Music 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 Joe LaMattina 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 2019, 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 Memphis '69 took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 72 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 104 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The musical score contains over 64 unique compositions.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2019, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: January 28, 2019
  • Runtime: 1h 12m

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