Speakn' Trane

Speakn’ Trane instantly stood out for me when I saw it. Shot on 16mm film, the classic visuals offer an impressive aesthetic that beautifully complements the subject of jazz music. The contrasting monochrome and coloured visuals in separate segments of the film add a layer of visual spectacle to an already impressive work of art on jazz. Jazz music is culturally significant in North America, especially among Black people. The music’s impressive richness is only outdone by its great historical significance.

This film conveys the complexities of jazz history by referencing one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, John Coltrane. A fictionalized interview, brilliantly performed by the actors, both of whom share great screen chemistry, serves as a pathway into the psyche, emotions, and processes of a young Black jazz musician raised on strong family values to be respectful but proud of his Black heritage. From a filmmaking perspective, the film’s historical accuracy is remarkable. From an audience perspective, the film offers viewers the opportunity to celebrate the life of a simple man who was also a remarkable musician, before his tragic death.

Badewa Ajibade
Filmmaker and programmer