Review of Bird (1988) by Elaine J — 02 Apr 2010

Eastwood's love of the jazz is self-evident and there are many aspects of Bird that are lovingly crafted and skilfully executed. In the end, though, the film struggles to speak to an audience that isn't already familiar with Parker and his monumental importance to modern popular music. The film takes far too long to get going and could easily have been an hour shorter - jazz fans will tolerate the sluggish pace but it might leave the wider audience somewhat cold.

Whittaker's portrayal of Bird (Charlie Parker) is brilliant - he's taller than the real thing, but has obviously done his homework - even the way he fingers the sax is exactly like Parker's style. Really low-key and non-sensational film. Could have sensationalised the drugs, booze & womanizing but majors on the jazz instead. Nothing wrong with that approach and resulting film is thoughtful, evocative and ultimately engaging. A must see for jazz lovers.