Louis Prima - In Person!: Wildest Performances 1936-1973

Louis Prima - In Person!: Wildest Performances 1936-1973 is a captivating celebration of the life and music career of one of America's most iconic jazz and swing musicians, Louis Prima, fondly remembered as 'the King of the Swingers.' As the title suggests, it is a compilation of Prima's most electrifying performances, filmed between 1936 and 1973, carefully curated for the enjoyment of music aficionados and fans of Louis Prima.

The movie is woven together through meticulously chosen vintage footage, painting a vivid picture of Prima's explosive talent and infectious charisma that made him a force to be reckoned with on stage. From his days of big band swing in the '30s and '40s, to his progression to the Las Vegas lounges in the '50s, before transitioning to pop music in the '60s and '70s, the viewer is treated to a masterful journey through Prima's evolving style over five decades.

The film, though primarily driven by the strength of Prima's performances, also incorporates revealing interviews and commentary from those who knew him best, including bandmates, showbiz acquaintances and family members. These testimonies offer unique insights into Prima's passionate approach to music, boisterous personality, and his influential role in shaping the music world.

The unique feature of Louis Prima - In Person!: Wildest Performances 1936-1973, is that it isn't just a straight forward documentary. It places a magnificent emphasis on live performances with high-quality footage, often interrupted only by short, concise narrations or perceptive comments that add historical context or obscure fun anecdotes about Prima's eventful and humorous life.

The movie opens up with Prima's vivacious performance in the 1936 short-film "Rhythm on the Reservation," giving audiences an early glimpse into his musical prowess. It proceeds to track Prima's career chronologically, filled with powerful renditions of his best-known hits such as "Jump, Jive, an' Wail," "Just a Gigolo," "Oh Marie," and "Sing, Sing, Sing."

One intriguing part of the movie is Prima's musical relationship with his wife Keely Smith. It portrays their on-stage dynamic as they dazzled audiences with their captivating duets and comedic moments, underlining the chemistry that made their joint numbers memorable. Not to mention the contributions made by saxophonist Sam Butera and the Witnesses, which, combined with Prima's scorching trumpet, produced moments of pure jazz brilliance.

Louis Prima - In Person!: Wildest Performances 1936-1973 is more than just a movie, it doubles as a time capsule, capturing the essence of an era in American music that was deeply influenced by Louis Prima's musical genius. It provides an unfiltered portrayal of Prima's impassioned performances, presenting him as the consummate entertainer he was: a talented showman, superb musician, engaging singer, and accomplished band leader.

The movie does an excellent job in showcasing Prima’s wild stage antics, energetic band interaction and constant engaging banter with his audience. From his onstage jokes to his infectious laughter, it truly is a vivid testament to Prima's boundless zest for fun and entertaining.

Through carefully edited filmic scenes, the movie provides an authentic vision of Prima's carnival-like showmanship, delivering anticipated moments of raw jazz, pop, swing beats, and even cool lounge music. As the viewer moves from one spellbinding act to another, they're completely immersed into Prima's world, creating an almost visceral experience of sitting right there in the audience during his performances.

Louis Prima - In Person!: Wildest Performances 1936-1973 is a must-watch for die-hard fans of Louis Prima, music historians and any fan of jazz and swing music. The movie serves not only as a tribute to Prima's talents but as a testament to his indomitable spirit that consistently entertained audiences and left a lasting legacy in the music world. It is an unforgettable viewing experience that successfully showcases the man behind the music and his unparalleled contributions to American music history. Prepare to be riveted by Prima's magnetic stage presence, dynamic performances, and his unique and enthusiastic zest for life and music.