What Price Jazz

About This Movie

What Price Jazz is a curious little piece from 1934 that dances on the edge of satire and musicality. The film features Mr. Blue Laws, a soapbox preacher, who engages in a comedic crusade against jazz, enlisting the reluctant Mr. Public Opinion. The whimsical tone is punctuated by a mix of live performances from Ted Fiorito's orchestra and some oddball antics that grip you in an unpredictable rhythm. The practical effects are charming in their simplicity, while the performances feel both earnest and a tad exaggerated, which adds to its quirky charm. There’s a strange energy to the pacing, keeping you on your toes as you navigate this playful jab at jazz culture.

What Price Jazz remains a bit of an enigma in the collector's market, with limited prints circulating among avid film enthusiasts. Most known copies are either in rough shape or incomplete, adding to its allure and rarity. The whimsy and oddity of its premise attract a niche audience, often sparking discussions about early jazz film portrayals and the cultural sentiments of the time. For those collecting obscure or early sound films, this one can be a fascinating find.