‘Round Midnight Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A sax player runs away to Paris to be sad with better wine, meets a super-fan, and then… still dies. Jazz!

🍿 ‘Round Midnight: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Dale’s Departure to Paris

In 1959 New York City, we are introduced to Dale Turner, a talented but troubled jazz musician struggling with alcoholism. He receives an offer to perform in Paris, offering him a fresh start away from the demons haunting him in the United States. The respect and appreciation he receives in Paris are a stark contrast to the discrimination he faced at home, setting the stage for a potential renaissance.

Francis’s Devotion

In Paris, Dale’s music captivates Francis Borler, an adoring fan who becomes his unlikely friend and caretaker. Francis, a struggling graphic designer, sees Dale as a genius and dedicates himself to helping him overcome his addiction and find stability. He offers Dale a place to live and supports him emotionally, fostering a poignant bond.

Challenges and Setbacks

Despite Francis’s best efforts, Dale continues to struggle with his demons. His addiction resurfaces, leading to hospitalizations and setbacks in his recovery. The film explores the complexities of addiction and the limits of human intervention, even with the most devoted support system. This leads to Francis having to take extreme measures to ensure his health.

Return to New York

After a period of relative stability, Dale decides to return to New York, hoping to reconnect with his daughter and revitalize his career. Francis accompanies him, but the familiar environment triggers old habits. The temptations and pressures of the New York jazz scene prove too much for Dale, leading to a tragic relapse.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Dale Turner (Dexter Gordon): A talented but troubled tenor sax player battling alcoholism, seeking refuge and respect in the Parisian jazz scene.
• Francis Borler (François Cluzet): A passionate Parisian jazz enthusiast who befriends Dale and tries to help him overcome his self-destructive tendencies.
• Berangere (Gabrielle Haker): Francis’ young daughter who forms a sweet bond with Dale and adds a touch of innocence to their lives.
• Buttercup (Sandra Reaves-Phillips): Dale’s pragmatic friend and business manager who tries to keep him on track.
• Eddie Wayne (Herbie Hancock): The piano player of the band.
• Darcey Leigh (Lonette McKee): A singer and old acquaintance of Dale’s who briefly rekindles a connection with him.
• R.W. Goodley (Martin Scorsese): Dale’s oily manager in New York who represents the exploitative side of the music industry.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Dale Turner: “Y’know, Lady Francis. There’s not enough kindness in the world.” – Dale says this to Francis while discussing their upcoming return to New York, lamenting the lack of compassion he feels exists there compared to Paris.
• Dale Turner: “My life is music. My love is music. And it’s twenty-four hours a day.” – Dale explains this to a psychiatrist, expressing the all-consuming nature of his dedication to jazz, even at the cost of his well-being.
• Ben: “He could be on his back and he’d still be great.” – The club manager defends Dale’s artistry to Madame Queen, highlighting Dale’s exceptional talent despite his physical condition.
• Dale Turner: “S.O.S. Same old shit.” – Dale says this to Francis upon arriving in New York and being greeted by his manager, Goodley, expressing his feeling of being exploited and trapped in a familiar pattern.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $3,272,593
• Worldwide Gross: $3,272,593

💥 ‘Round Midnight Reviews

Personal Review

This movie just hit me in a way I wasn’t expecting. I’m not even that into jazz, but the atmosphere and Dexter Gordon’s performance made me feel like I was right there in that smoky club. The scenes between him and Francis were so touching, and the ending, even though you knew it was coming, still got me. A beautiful, melancholic film!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Jazz music enthusiasts”
  • “Fans of Dexter Gordon”
  • “Viewers interested in character-driven dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate films about the arts and artists”
  • “People who enjoy stories set in Paris in the 1950s”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Alcohol and substance abuse”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Depiction of addiction and its consequences”
  • “Brief language”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Tavernier creates a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of jazz and the lives of the musicians who dedicate themselves to the art. Gordon’s performance is understated and powerful, a must-see for jazz enthusiasts.
• The New York Times: “While the plot meanders, Dexter Gordon’s presence anchors the film, offering a glimpse into the soul of a jazz musician. The music is the true star, a mesmerizing blend of bebop and blues that elevates the entire experience.

Audience Reactions

The film’s authentic portrayal of the jazz scene resonated deeply with viewers.: Viewers found the music captivating and Dexter Gordon’s performance unforgettable, even if the plot was slow.

Overall Consensus: ‘Round Midnight’ is a beautifully atmospheric and melancholic film, praised for its authentic portrayal of the jazz scene and Dexter Gordon’s captivating performance, though some find the plot slow-paced.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Original Score)- 1987

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The character of Dale Turner is a composite of jazz legends Bud Powell and Lester Young, blending elements of their lives and musical styles.”
• “Director Bertrand Tavernier sought to create an authentic atmosphere by filming in real Parisian jazz clubs and casting actual jazz musicians, including Dexter Gordon and Herbie Hancock.”
• “Dexter Gordon’s performance as Dale Turner earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, a rare honor for a non-professional actor.”
• “The film’s soundtrack, composed by Herbie Hancock, won the Academy Award for Best Original Score, highlighting the importance of the music to the film’s narrative.”

🖥️ How to Watch ‘Round Midnight?

As of today, ‘Round Midnight’ is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability, as options may vary depending on your region. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also often available for purchase online.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed ‘Round Midnight, you might like these similar films:

• Bird (1988): A biographical drama about jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker, exploring his genius and struggles with addiction, similar to Dale Turner’s story.
• Mo’ Better Blues (1990): Spike Lee’s film delves into the life of a jazz trumpeter, exploring the challenges of balancing art, relationships, and personal demons, echoing the themes in ‘Round Midnight’.
• The Connection (1961): A gritty, realistic portrayal of jazz musicians struggling with heroin addiction in New York City, offering a raw and unflinching look at the dark side of the jazz world.
• Whiplash (2014): This movie explores the intense dedication and personal sacrifices required to achieve greatness in jazz music, although the focus is on a younger, aspiring musician.
• Let’s Get Lost (1988): A documentary about the turbulent life and career of jazz trumpeter Chet Baker, capturing his charisma and self-destructive tendencies.

🛒 ‘Round Midnight Related Products

• ‘Round Midnight’ Soundtrack (Vinyl): Experience Herbie Hancock’s Oscar-winning score on classic vinyl. This collector’s item features the complete soundtrack and is a must-have for jazz aficionados.
• Dexter Gordon: Our Man in Paris (CD): Get Dexter Gordon’s legendary album that was made while he was living in Paris. The Album will give the listener a complete understanding of Gordon’s brilliance.
• ‘Round Midnight’ Movie Poster (Framed): Own a framed print of the iconic movie poster. Perfect for displaying your love for jazz and classic cinema.
• Jazz Club: The Definitive Collection (Various Artists): This collection features the best jazz tracks from around the world. Let your ears decide who is the ultimate jazz player of all time.

🎧 Soundtrack

‘Round Midnight features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “‘Round Midnight” – performed by Herbie Hancock & Dexter Gordon
• “How Long Has This Been Going On?” – performed by Lonette McKee
• “As Time Goes By” – performed by Dexter Gordon

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Herbie Hancock winning Original Score for “Round Midnight”

Check out this clip of Herbie Hancock winning an Oscar for ‘Round Midnight’! It’s always cool to see artists get recognized for their amazing work, especially for a movie as iconic as this one.

Dexter Gordon: He Says Going To Prison Saved His Life

Ever wonder about the real life of Dexter Gordon, the legendary saxophonist and star of ‘Round Midnight’? This video dives into his incredible journey, revealing some pretty surprising stories about his life. It’s wild how life experiences can shape an artist!

https://youtube.com/watch?v=p9E2hPZIB0s

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