Review of All That Jazz (1979) by Andy C — 17 May 2010
Fresh off of crafting a statement on Lenny Bruce, Bob Fosse presents himself, addictions and all. Despite his loutishness, he's so unbelievably talented. Roy Scheider is such a fascinating non-star.
His actions pulsate with truth yet we can't get our memories of him as Brody in Jaws, the sidekick in French Connection, or the brother in Marathon Man out of our heads. Why was he cast in this pic? Still his domination of the cattle call audition (danced to the tune of George Benson's version of "On Broadway) is completely believable and sympathetic.
Beyond that we've got Ann Reinking and Ben Vereen. Wow! I could watch both of them forever. There's nothing like incredible dancing to life one's spirits. I think the whole point of this film is to say, "Look what I can create, yet I'm so profoundly damaged.
" The dichotomy between the exuberance of the footlights and the squalor of addiction creates a vibrant and truthful tension in this film.
This review of All That Jazz (1979) was written by Andy C on 17 May 2010.
All That Jazz has generally received very positive reviews.
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