Keep On Keepin’ On

August. 08,2014      
Rating:
7.7
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Trailer Synopsis Cast

Eighty-nine year old trumpeting legend Clark Terry has mentored jazz wonders like Miles Davis and Quincy Jones, but Terry’s most unlikely friendship is with Justin Kauflin, a 23-year-old blind piano player with uncanny talent, but debilitating nerves. As Justin prepares for the most pivotal moment in his budding career, Terry’s ailing health threatens to end his own.

Clark Terry as  Self

Reviews

Scanialara
2014/08/08

You won't be disappointed!

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Stevecorp
2014/08/09

Don't listen to the negative reviews

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Console
2014/08/10

best movie i've ever seen.

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Merolliv
2014/08/11

I really wanted to like this movie. I feel terribly cynical trashing it, and that's why I'm giving it a middling 5. Actually, I'm giving it a 5 because there were some superb performances.

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leshutchinson
2014/08/12

The premise of this documentary - the mentoring relationship between jazz great Clark Terry and aspiring pianist Justin Kauflin - lends itself to the heart-warming category. However, as the story unfolds and we learn more about the struggles being faced by both men with their health (and nerves in Kauflin's case), we are given an insight to the strength of the human spirit to overcome adversity. Despite his failing health, Clark Terry continues to mentor Kauflin and others. Despite setbacks in the early stages of his career, Kauflin continues to practice and develop with a steely resolve.These strands are inspirational. What truly sets this documentary apart is the bond of friendship that develops between the two men. It is uplifting to see the development of their affection and to share in the joy that they share in each other's company.I highly recommend seeking this one out - it is a wonder-filled story.

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garyrob2008
2014/08/13

This is the type of movie that deserves attention and filled theater seats. It's current timeline (being a documentary) also manages to bring you back in time because of characters like Terry, Jones, Miles Davis etc...The old days of jazz are made relevant again in this heart touching story of inexplicable talent and chance encounters that were somehow meant to be. You get to see a chain reaction of mentoring through decades of very talented jazz musicians. The audience gets more than their moneys worth watching this movie. Not only are we treated to the music aspect, but we also witness an undying love story between Gwen and Clark that tugs at the heart strings.Anyone who enjoys music would have a difficult time NOT enjoying this movie. A must see!!

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bgpender
2014/08/14

Just viewed this documentary last weekend at a local art house in Norfolk as a wonderful treat from two dear friends who love compelling documentaries and Jazz as much as I do.I must say I was pleasantly shocked when I first saw Justin appear on the screen ("OMG...That's Justin!"); I met Justin several years ago when he gigged at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts one Thursday in 2010. I was so mesmerized by his musicianship that I actually purchased his CD and had him sign it.This documentary is a compelling story of the language of Jazz and its transfer through multiple generations, courtesy of Clark Terry. But beyond musicianship, this documentary is the story of the power of Mentorship and why it takes a village to keep music traditions and language alive.And by the way, It's a Tear Jerker. At least it was for me.

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aashley-133-204033
2014/08/15

This journey of friendship, regardless of your interest in or love of music, was a story which grabs your soul and swells your being with strength and sheer appreciation of life. These two incredibly gifted musicians were so aptly portrayed as selfless humanitarians who bring to the audience an intimate insight into their lives, intertwined with the exceptional musical talents they both so modestly reveal. Hard to conceive modesty emanating from someone who played with Count Basie and Duke Ellington, and taught the likes of Quincy Jones and Miles Davis, but Clark Terry is just such a man. His latest student, Justin Kauflin, is an inspiration himself, despite his blindness, showcasing the excellence of his gifts as a pianist, guided by the exceptional musical teachings and life lessons from "CT". Their synchronicity shines; You cannot leave the theatre without tears, smiles and the education gleaned from the strength of positive thinking and faith in humanity.

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