"It's Showtime Folks!"

I am both surprised and proud that I have managed not to plaster posts about this film all over my blog. I made it to twenty-five posts before I even mentioned the iconic All That Jazz (ATJ). I know I have a few favourites (hence there being a need for a section on my blog dedicated to my favourite films), but there are favourites and then there are favourites, and this film is a favourite (and I think it would be a safe bet to say that if you take the time to watch, it will become a new favourite of yours).

This 1979 semi-autobiographical tale tells the story of legendary director and choreographer Bob Fosse, told through the character of Joe Gideon. For those who don’t know who Bob Fosse is, he is essentially an American film and broadway icon! He is behind some of the most memorable and fun musical numbers and I think we are lucky that he has left us a film that he feels best embodies his life and who he is.

Who knew the philosophy of sex, drugs and rock 'n’ roll was also the mantra in the Broadway musical scene? (although you might need to replace rock 'n’ roll with classical 'n’ jazz). The lifestyle is more fast-paced and hardcore than one would guess. Much like in Black Swan or Whiplash, Joe Gideon is an artist obsessed. Much is written about the artist obsessed; it is one of the most common and popular topics in film writing. However, I think this film offers us much more than the typical artist obsessed story. Joe’s story is more real, more human. Perhaps this has something to do with the vast difference in ages. Many artist obsessed films feature a very young protagonist desperate to climb to the top of their professional ladder and willing to do anything to get there. Joe is already at the top and has remained there for quite a while. Joe has everything to lose; not just career-wise, but in his personal relationships, including the one with his daughter. For a fun movie, there is a genuine story because there is something at stake.

So much credit should go to Schneider for his portrayal of Gideon. It isn't easy to embody a character. It is more difficult to embody a character based on a real person. It is even more difficult to embody the very person that is directing your performance. I can only imagine the pressure he must have felt, but thankfully he pulled it off and managed to give what I would consider the performance of a lifetime. He totally embodies not only the workaholic nature of Fosse and his dedication to his beloved art form, but also his personal life and the man behind the art.

ATJ is not just known for its story and its numbers, but also its technical aspects. I think it would be a safe bet to say that every film school uses the ATJ opening sequence as a shining example of how well thought out and smart editing can make a good scene into a show-stopping scene. This scene is parodied in many films and television series (Better Call Saul, to mention one recent example).

ATJ is a great film for people like me that have a slight obsession and fascination with Broadway and particularly the dancers and their dedication, rejection, obsession and willingness to put their bodies on the line, all for a good performance. I have mentioned this in my post about Frederick Wiseman (take a look) and if that spoke to you, this film will too.

This film is as fun and exciting as could be expected. Fosse is behind some of the most joyous numbers in film and stage, like Sweet Charity’s Rhythm of Life. While the musical Gideon is creating is fictional, this film delves into the darker side of what it takes to create every number. His honest portrayal shows the toll such a job takes on you and how each number and each performance takes a part of you. The creative process is amazing but draining.

As mentioned, this film has all of the fun, excitement and joy that any musical brings, but also presents a deep dive into the mindset of the artist obsessed. It is also a portrayal of a complex man, a father, an ex-husband, a son, a visionary, an artist; a person as flawed and vulnerable as any of us. It is this vulnerability that I believe makes this film a masterpiece. He may be an icon and have reached the pinnacle of success in the field, but, as they say, death waits for no man and although we may think we can outrun it, we all will have to give our last great performance.

It is an emotional and beautiful film. It is a gift and wonderful to see a person being able to show us who they are in a fun, honest and real way. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

To be on the wire is life. The rest is waiting.