SinaiFree Film Society Discussion, "The Jazz Singer"

01 Oct @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

The SinaiFree Film Society will discuss “The Jazz Singer” on TUESDAY, October 1 (note change of date) at 7:30pm.

While not the first “talkie,” as often acclaimed, this 1927 film is still a cinematic milestone: the first feature length motion picture with both synchronized music and dialogue. Al Jolson plays the son of a Cantor who defies his father and turns his back on his religion to pursue his dream of being a popular singer. The story is framed by the chanting of Kol Nidre. Jolson’s use of blackface will undoubtedly continue discussions we have had of cultural norms and the challenge of viewing a film from the perspectives of the time in which it was made, and today.

This film can be streamed for free on Tubi and Filmzie (both with ads), and rented for $2.89 on Amazon and $2.99 on Apple TV. There are nine DVDs in the Westchester Library System.