Constructed around pre-existing footage of the legendary jazz pianist and composer, THELONIOUS MONK: STRAIGHT NO CHASER is a lively and loving tribute to the genius of Thelonious Monk. Co-producer Bruce Ricker acquired footage of Monk that noted documentarians Michael and Christian
Blackwood shot in 1968 as Monk prepared for a world tour. Ricker, working with filmmaker Charlotte Zwerin, brackets this footage with original interviews and additional archival materials to tell Monk's story.
Monk was born in 1917, a native of Rocky Mount, North Carolina. As a boy, he came with his family to New York City, where he was exposed to such music luminaries as Fats Waller ...
Released:
1988
Rated:
PG-13
Length:
89 mins