Louis Prima: The Wildest!

Great review of this jazz master's career, from New Orleans, to New York (where he penned the immortal "Sing, Sing, Sing") and on to his later triumph as a Vegas showman. His gift, and his gab, are clearly on display here through archive footage and kinetoscopes of early TV appearances with Keely Smith. Loaded with interviews, photos, recordings and rare films. If you think you knew about Louis Prima, this documentary will open your eyes. A great film about one of the 20th Century's great jazz artists.

I loved this wonderful documentary. Having seen Louis Prima and Keely Smith at the State Theater in Hartford, Ct, it was a pleasure to see their chemistry captured on film. When Keely sang "That Old Black Magic", standing at the microphone without moving a muscle, it took your breath away. I'm happy that she's still entertaining in Las Vegas.

One of the most interesting and entertaining music documentaries ever made, and one of the best movies I've seen this year. Great archival footage of Prima's performances (especially the clips from the 50s with Keely Smith), along with incisive interviews with friends, family members, and musicians.

We saw this on cable about a year ago while idly zapping around. Although i was very young when they were in their prime, the music brings back rich memories.

The film is such a gem. a film done in the rough b/w 50's style about a modern musical great (listen to FoodTV's Multo Mario - that's Louis Prima music!).

New Orleans has always produced great music via a blending of cultures. Louis is certainly among the greats representing the large Italian population in NOLA. Louis Prima and Keely Smith excelled at combining swing, jazz, and comedy.

My only gripe is having seen this once, I want to see it again and again but can't find it anywhere. Can anyone help???

Excellent documentary on one of the greats of New Orleans at the beginning and at the peak on down to the end. Informative and reverent interviews with close friends and fellow entertainers. Sam Butera still thinks Prima was the greatest and loved him like a brother.. Sam is masterful on the sax til yet and younger musicians should take a good look at a real cat!