All That Jazz

Released December 1979 Starring Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange (as Angelique), Ann Reinking, Leland Palmer, Cliff Gorman Directed by Bob Fosse 123 min. Box office gross - 20 million See complete credits at Internet Movie Database

 

Director/choreographer Bob Fosse's own autobiographical vision is shown through the eyes of Joe Gideon, a chain smoking, pill popping, booze drinking, womanizing Broadway director whose hectic life is headed in a rapid downward sprial. A heart attack catches up with him midway through the film and a from his hospital bed, he sees his life flash before him as an elaborate staged fantasy. Jessica Lange's role is merely presented as a decorate piece - swathed in white chiffon, she is Gideon's "Angel of Death", prodding him with questions and observations about his life. The elaborate choreography, sharp editing and an energetic performance by Roy Scheider helped the film achieve an Oscar nomination for Best Film of 1979 yet it is hard for the viewer to see what appeal this character has and why others gravitate toward him. A must see for Bob Fosse fans.

Critical Sampling:

"Egomaniacal, wonderfully choreographed, often compelling...more an art item than a broad commercial prospect." - Variety

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