Daybreak Express Poster

Daybreak Express 1957

★ 7.146 votes5 min📅 1957-01-01

Dive into the vibrant 1957 short film *Daybreak Express*, a five-minute cinematic time capsule directed by D. A. Pennebaker.

Director: D. A. Pennebaker

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Daybreak Express* (1957) about?

*Daybreak Express* (1957) is a short documentary set to Duke Ellington's *Daybreak Express* jazz track, showcasing the Third Avenue elevated subway station in New York City before it was torn down. The film turns urban transit into a rhythmic experience, blending motion and music into a five-minute visual symphony.

Who directed *Daybreak Express*?

*Daybreak Express* was directed by D. A. Pennebaker, a pioneer of documentary filmmaking known for his innovative and immersive style.

Who stars in *Daybreak Express*?

The cast of *Daybreak Express* primarily features the Third Avenue elevated subway system and its passengers, with Duke Ellington's iconic jazz recording providing the soundtrack.

Is *Daybreak Express* (1957) worth watching?

While *Daybreak Express* is a short film with no IMDb rating, its artistic fusion of jazz and urban decay makes it a fascinating watch for fans of classic music documentaries. Its brief runtime packs a punch, offering a unique glimpse into 1950s New York.

How long is *Daybreak Express*?

*Daybreak Express* runs for 5 minutes.

About Daybreak Express (1957) — How a 5-Minute Jazz Short Captured NYC's Soul

Dive into the vibrant 1957 short film *Daybreak Express*, a five-minute cinematic time capsule directed by D. A. Pennebaker. Set to Duke Ellington's iconic 1933 jazz piece, this documentary-music hybrid captures the raw energy and bustling rhythm of New York City's Third Avenue elevated subway station just before its demolition.

The film transforms an urban landscape into a living symphony, blending the mechanical clatter of trains with the soulful melodies of Ellington's orchestration. With its bold visuals and immersive soundtrack, *Daybreak Express* offers a nostalgic yet dynamic snapshot of mid-century New York, where the end of an era feels like the dawn of something new.