By Charlie Jordin
“If you’re gonna tell a story, come with some attitude.”
Starring, co-written and directed by Don Cheadle, Miles Ahead is a biopic exploring the life of Jazz legend Miles Davis. It is the first time Davis’ life has been brought to the big screen and Cheadle’s performance is flawless, a testament to the amount of dedication he has had for the film. The non-linear tale takes place during his alleged comeback after years of drug abuse and separating from his wife. A journalist from the Rolling Stone magazine (Ewan McGregor) attempts to document his comeback but ends up becoming his partner in crime instead after Davis’ new material is stolen. The film jumps back and forth from past to present making the audience feel as if they are part of a daydream in Davis’ head. The playful, abstract scenes are both based on true events and imagined by Cheadle, who formed a close relationship with Davis’ family whilst developing the film. The film was funded by crowdfunding website Indiegogo and had been in development since 2008.
Filmed in just over a month with a relatively low budget, the film manages to capture the essence of the era both musically and aesthetically, transporting the audience into the past. Haunted by memories of his ex-wife and riddled with health problems, the film begins in the late 70’s when Davis had become a reclusive drug addict. Refusing to make more music, his position as a Jazz prodigy seems to only isolate him further as Columbia Records pressure him to make more music despite his poor health. Exhilarating scenes of gun-toting car chases ensue as he attempts to reclaim his art form in a money-orientated environment.
The film allows us to see a different side to Miles Davis, beyond a pop culture icon; a deeply flawed, paranoid individual and an abusive husband. It is also an unflinching study into racism during the 60’s from the perspective of a black man, with scenes of police brutality still resonating today. Yet, by the end of the film, the audience are left in awe of his talent and cool exterior as the credits roll over him performing on stage.
Miles Ahead is a thoughtful exploration into celebrity worship and how we as a society separate art from the artist, blind to their true nature. The film is a must-watch and would be enjoyed both by fans of Miles Davis and those who have never heard of him.
Charlie is a second year Film and Media student who loves old films and 90’s TV shows. You can follow her on Twitter here.
Featured image: WendyWei.pexels With the most anticipated night of the year right around the corner, the big question is looming: where are you going to celebrate it? Whether you dread it or count down the days, are new to the Manchester nightlife scene or are a regular, we’ve got your New Year’s Eve plans sorted….
By Georgia Robinson Featured image and gallery: Ruby Sharp Get one step ahead of your 2025 aesthetic and plan your outfits for the new year with this guide to all the trends we expect to see next year. Why not jazz up your wardrobe with trending accessories or browse Depop and Vinted for a pre-loved…
Featured image and gallery: Kaitlyn Brockley The rumble of trains passing through Piccadilly station, the hollers of touts (“tickets, buy or sell?”) and security (“have your IDs ready”), and the excitable chatter of gig-goers all audibly backdrop the outskirts of Manchester’s Mayfield Depot this dark, damp evening. Leaving the outside chill and travelling along the…
Featured image and gallery: Leo Woollison Crook Angela Cheveau and Kate Carne were crowned winners of the 2024 QuietManDave Prize on Friday. The short-form writing prize is held biennially to honour the memory of the much-loved and well-known Manchester writer and critic Dave Murray, who passed away in 2019. The writers were each awarded £1000…
Leave a reply