Round Midnight

This film explores the development and evolution of bebop in the post-war era, showcasing saxophone talent Dexter Gordon, who performs an Academy award winning score by Herbie Hancock. It is set in Paris, the artistic capital of Europe, where a young Frenchman is spellbound by the warm tenor tones that emanate from a fading musician (Gordon). A heartwarming friendship develops, and gives way to a short, final burst of creative genius from the musician.

Director Bertrand Tavernier develops the life of Gordon at depth, shading in its obsessivity, passion, social detachment, and mild cynicism with a palette of blue. While many may first assume the title song to be derived from Thelonius Monk's more famous 'Round Midnight', the many bebop pieces in the soundtrack are unrelated to this signature piece. Instead, they form their own brand of lazy, brassy blues that are perfectly suited to the hedonistic-obsessive-compulsive character of Dexter Gordon. Scenes swagger aimlessly, all in different directions, while Gordon, a heavy drinker, is relieved of his purpose in life.

It can only be presumed that the film seeks to highlight his short, conclusive compositional period, where the devotion of the young Parisian plays a major role, motivation-wise. A machiavellian viewpoint will certainly prove this film unpalatable, as many scenes involve jazz band performances and the trivial interactions of Gordon and his fellow black americans. One may, however, opt to focus on his music, and the variety of emotions out of which his compositions are borne. Only in this manner can the musical contributions of a discriminated class be appreciated in their full value.

Anon.