ZERO GRAVITY : A Cinematic Ode to Jazz Legend, Wayne Shorter

Directed & Produced by Dorsay Alavi,  Zero Gravity is a cinematic ode to jazz legend Wayne Shorter. Co-produced by Mathew Flint and executive produced by Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, and Jeremy Kleiner, the documentary is presented in three portals. The viewer is transported into prolific periods of Shorter’s life. With quality documentary filmmaking, we’re shown how Shorter grew to greatness and became one of the most influential musicians and composers in American music. For over 60 years, he has shattered the limitations of jazz and his compositions have become an industry standard.

To chronologize Wayne Shorter’s career in the mini-series is an exceptional feat. As a three-part documentary, it purely covers the surface of this amazingly talented and truly loved music icon. In truth, there could be additional episodes to allow further depth and discovery. With the fusion of original film footage, animation, and recorded interviews, Dorsay Alavi superbly captures components of Shorter’s life, from his childhood growing up in New Jersey, his college years, his membership of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, and committing to Buddhism, to name a few.

The film not only highlights his genius as an artist but his character as a person.  His advocacy for music as a source to initiate social change and a medium to challenge our thought process is clearly exhibited. It’s no surprise, unlike many artists of his generation, his influence remains high with young musicians and followers of music. Featuring Wayne Shorter and a variety of music icons, such as Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, Carlos Santana, Joni Michell, Neil Degrasse Tyson, and  Terrance Blanchard, this is definitely a film for music enthusiasts of any genre. Powerful, emotional, humorous, and insightful, this for me is one of the best biographical documentaries you’re likely to see.

The film is released this August 25th.

Movie Rating: 5 stars.

Movie Rating Guide

1 Star = Unwatchable
2 Stars = Cannot Recommend
3 Stars = Great for the Fans
4 Stars = A Solid Movie
5 Stars = Must Own (DVD/Stream Download)

About Author

David Emmanuel Noel

David Emmanuel Noel is an avid blogger, film fanatic, art enthusiast, music lover, and theatergoer. He is an interdisciplinary artist, curator, and PR consultant who has been involved in several music events and visual art exhibitions at venues such as the Kennedy Center Washington DC, Bernie Grant Arts Centre London, the Landmark Arts Building New York, and Whole 9 Gallery in Culver City, California. He has worked closely with institutes, professional bodies, and agencies such as the Royal Institute of British Architects, New York Mayor’s Office, CAMBA- the New York-based agency, the NSPCC, and several London Boroughs on projects supporting the environmental and therapeutic benefits of the arts. He is based in London and New York.

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