#TIFF15: “BORN TO BE BLUE”

Chet Baker for many of this generation might not ring a bell, but Robert Budreau-directed Biopic Born to be Blue soon will have something to say about that. Filmed in Sudbury, the Drama starring Ethan Hawke showcases the actor at his best, for the first time showcasing his own musical abilities.

Set just as Baker is about to embark on an against-the-odds-comeback and told partly through a series of flashbacks, we learn about the iconic trumpeter/singer’s rise and fall as a result of his heroin dependency. Just as a Film is about to put into production about his life story, he meets stunning Carmen Ejogo, cast in the role of his ex-wife. We witness the challenges Baker faces, hitting rock bottom – always one misstep from landing back in prison – and the series of events leading to his eventual comeback including the passionate romance between him and x. We also get a glimpse at the strained relationship between Baker and his father, a failed musician.

Born to be Blue despite being a story of overcoming the odds never masks the fact that the true demon is Baker‘s addiction and despite being inspirational, tonally we never forget the deep sadness he lives through which helped birth his acclaimed music.  Powerful performances by Hawke and Ejogo topline the Film which could well have enough legs to propel itself into awards season for a mention.

eOne Films release Born to be Blue, which screens at TIFF ’15:

Sun Sep 13 2:00 PM
WINTER GARDEN THEATRE

Mon Sep 14 9:00 AM
THE BLOOR HOT DOCS CINEMA