St. Louis Blues 1929
"Queen of the Blues"
Dive into the raw, emotive power of early American cinema with *St. Louis Blues* (1929), Dudley Murphy's vibrant short film that captures the essence of jazz-age heartache through the lens of blues legend Bessie Smith.
Director: Dudley Murphy
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is St. Louis Blues (1929) about?
This short film follows blues icon Bessie Smith as she deals with heartbreak after her lover leaves her for a younger woman. With her signature voice and a chorus of dancers, Smith turns her sorrow into a powerful blues performance that captures the mood of the era.
Who directed St. Louis Blues?
Dudley Murphy directed this short film, infusing it with a stylish, atmospheric approach that highlights Bessie Smith's vocal prowess.
Who stars in St. Louis Blues?
The film stars Bessie Smith—known as the Queen of the Blues—as the lead, alongside James P. Johnson on piano, and actors Alec Lovejoy, Jimmy Mordecai, and Isabel Washington.
Is St. Louis Blues (1929) worth watching?
Absolutely, if you appreciate early jazz-age films or the raw talent of Bessie Smith. As a cultural artifact of Black cinema and music, it's a fascinating glimpse into 1920s artistic expression, even if its length limits its narrative depth.
How long is St. Louis Blues?
*St. Louis Blues* has a runtime of 16 minutes.
About St. Louis Blues (1929) — Bessie Smith's Electrifying Blues Drama in 16 Minutes
Dive into the raw, emotive power of early American cinema with *St. Louis Blues* (1929), Dudley Murphy's vibrant short film that captures the essence of jazz-age heartache through the lens of blues legend Bessie Smith. This all-Black cast production unfolds like a visceral blues ballad, where Smith's magnetic voice narrates a tale of betrayal and sorrow after her gambler lover abandons her for a younger woman. Backed by the iconic James P. Johnson on piano and a chorus of dancers, the film radiates a moody, atmospheric energy that pulses with the rhythms of the era.
Set against the gritty backdrop of St. Louis, the movie blends drama and music into a seamless, unforgettable experience. Smith's performance is electric, her voice a conduit for the pain and resilience of the blues tradition. With its tight 16-minute runtime, *St. Louis Blues* packs a punch, offering a snapshot of Black culture and artistic expression during a transformative period in film history.