Call It Anything 1970
Captured in electrifying 36 minutes, *Call It Anything (1970)* is a raw slice of jazz history from the legendary Isle of Wight Festival.
Director: Murray Lerner
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is Call It Anything (1970) about?
*Call It Anything* documents a legendary 1970 performance by Miles Davis and his ensemble at the Isle of Wight Festival. The film captures the band's electrifying improvisations and fusion of jazz, rock, and avant-garde influences. As a snapshot of Davis's experimental phase, it showcases tracks like *Bitches Brew* and *Sanctuary* in their rawest, most spontaneous form.
Who directed Call It Anything?
The film was directed by Murray Lerner, a documentary filmmaker known for capturing iconic live music performances.
Who stars in Call It Anything?
The film features Miles Davis on trumpet alongside jazz heavyweights Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette, and Airto Moreira.
Is Call It Anything (1970) worth watching?
With its groundbreaking lineup and historic footage, *Call It Anything* offers an invaluable glimpse into Miles Davis's electric period. Fans of jazz, fusion, or live music documentaries will appreciate its intensity and spontaneity, even in its concise runtime. While short, its cultural impact and musical brilliance make it a must-see for enthusiasts.
How long is Call It Anything?
The runtime is 36 minutes.
About Call It Anything (1970) — Miles Davis' electric jazz masterpiece at the Isle of Wight Festival
Captured in electrifying 36 minutes, *Call It Anything (1970)* is a raw slice of jazz history from the legendary Isle of Wight Festival. Director Murray Lerner's lens immortalizes Miles Davis leading an all-star ensemble through a hypnotic set that blends electric energy with deep improvisation. Fronted by the legendary trumpeter himself, the lineup boasts jazz titans like Chick Corea on electric piano, Keith Jarrett on organ, and Dave Holland on bass, all weaving together tracks like *Bitches Brew* and *Spanish Keys* into a transcendent groove. This short but potent concert film pulses with the spirit of 1970s avant-garde jazz, where boundaries blur and spontaneity reigns.
The atmosphere crackles with tension and invention, reflecting Davis's bold transition into electric territory. With Jack DeJohnette's thunderous drums and Airto Moreira's fiery percussion anchoring the sound, each note feels alive, as if the film itself is breathing with the musicians. *Call It Anything* isn't just a concert—it's a time capsule of a pivotal moment in music when tradition met revolution, leaving audiences to ponder what 'anything' truly meant in that era of artistic freedom.