ΤΗΕ JAZZ SINGER 1980

The Jazz Singer
Paramount, 1980, 115 minutes, ***
Released December, 1980

Though the story is somewhat of a downer, Neil Diamond's update of the by now classic tale is musically exciting. The musical scenes simply jump off the screen, and you'll find it difficult to keep your foot from tapping. The musical staging is outstanding, as well. If you like Neil Diamond, you'll like the film (at least the musical parts). If you don't like Neil Diamond, watch something else. Think of this film as a Neil Diamond concert...

Producer: Jerry Leider
Director: Richard Fleischer
Screenplay: Herbert Baker
(based on the stage musical "The Jazz Singer" by Samson Raphaelson)
Musical Score: Neil Diamond and Leonard Rosenman
Song Score: Neil Diamond, Gilbert Becaud, Doug Rhone, Richard Bennett and Alan Lindgren
Choreographer: Donald McKayle
Production Design: Harry Horner
Art Direction: Spencer Deverell
Set Decoration: Robert De Vestel, Christopher Horner, Ruby R. Levitt, Mark Poll Costume Design: Albert Wolsky
Cinematography: Isidore Mankofsky
Film Editing: Frank J. Urioste, Maury Winetrobe

Cast: Neil Diamond [Jess Robin], Laurence Olivier [Cantor Rabinovitch], Lucie Arnaz [Molly Bell], Catlin Adams [Rivka Rabinovitch], Franklyn Ajaye [Bubba], Paul Nicholas [Keith Lennox], Sully Boyar [Eddie Gibbs], James Booth [Paul Rossini], Luther Waters [Teddy], Rod Gist [Timmy], Oren Waters [Mel], Walter Janowitz [Rabbi Birnbaum], Janet Brandt [Aunt Tillie], John Witherspoon [M.C. at Cinderella Club], Dale Robinette [Tommy], Hank Garrett [Police Sergeant], James Karen [Barney Callahan], Jill Jaress [Cowgirl], Victor Paul [Irate Driver]

Musical Program: (all songs performed by Neil Diamond) America; Adon Olom; You Baby; Love on the Rocks; Amazed and Confused; On the Robert E. Lee; Summerlove; Hello Again; Acapulco; Hey Louise; Songs of Life; Jerusalem; Kol Nidre; My Name Is Yussel; America (reprise)