'Round Midnight 1986
"The music and the magic come together..."
'Round Midnight (1986) is a soul-stirring jazz drama directed by Bertrand Tavernier that paints 1959 Paris as a canvas of melancholy and musical brilliance.
Director: Bertrand Tavernier
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Round Midnight (1986) about?
'Round Midnight follows the unlikely friendship between an aging, ailing American jazz musician and a young Parisian struggling to make ends meet in 1959. As the saxophonist pours his soul into his music, the young man becomes his confidant and supporter, sparking a creative renaissance in the twilight of the musician's career.
Who directed 'Round Midnight?
'Round Midnight was directed by Bertrand Tavernier, a celebrated French filmmaker known for his deep appreciation of history and culture in cinema.
Who stars in 'Round Midnight?
The film stars jazz legend Dexter Gordon in the lead role, alongside François Cluzet as the young Parisian dreamer and actresses Gabrielle Haker and Christine Pascal in key supporting roles.
Is 'Round Midnight (1986) worth watching?
'Round Midnight is a must-watch for jazz enthusiasts and film lovers alike, thanks to its mesmerizing soundtrack and heartfelt story. The film's emotional depth and Gordon's virtuoso performance make it a standout in Tavernier's filmography, even if it isn't widely rated on IMDb.
How long is 'Round Midnight?
The runtime of 'Round Midnight is 131 minutes, or just over two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About 'Round Midnight (1986) — A Jazz Masterpiece of Friendship and Final Brilliance
'Round Midnight (1986) is a soul-stirring jazz drama directed by Bertrand Tavernier that paints 1959 Paris as a canvas of melancholy and musical brilliance. The story unfolds one evening at the legendary Blue Note nightclub, where an aging American tenor saxophonist—haunted by illness yet brimming with raw talent—unleashes a hauntingly beautiful solo. Outside, a struggling young Parisian, captivated by the sound, finds himself drawn into a fleeting yet transformative friendship with the musician. Their bond becomes a catalyst for a final, luminous flourish of genius, turning their chance encounter into a poignant exploration of art, connection, and fleeting time.
Tavernier's film pulses with authenticity, weaving jazz into its emotional core through Dexter Gordon's mesmerizing performance. The movie captures the grit of 1950s Parisian nightlife and the bittersweet allure of jazz as both escape and salvation. With its lush visuals and soulful score, 'Round Midnight transcends genre, offering a moving meditation on creativity and the bonds that outlast hardship.