LOUIS on May 17, 2025 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

“Jazz aficionados certainly will appreciate its evocation of early 20th century New Orleans, and those lucky enough to live in certain cities will have the opportunity to hear its rollicking score performed live by its composer Wynton Marsalis, pianist Cecile Licad and a stellar ensemble.” The Hollywood Reporter

“Of course, calling it a silent film is a misnomer – there will be plenty of music, and jazz is like a conversation between the players so there’ll be no shortage of dialogue.” – Wynton Marsalis

LOUIS is a captivating blend of vintage cinema and contemporary musical brilliance. This unique event features a silent film based loosely on the childhood of Louis Armstrong, a pivotal figure in jazz history, brought to life with a live score composed and performed by the renowned jazz musician Wynton Marsalis, Cecile Licad and an 11-piece all-star jazz ensemble. Directed by Dan Pritzker and shot in beautiful sepia tones by Academy Award-winning cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond as a modern reimagining of early silent film, LOUIS (originally released in 2010) is an homage to Louis Armstrong and the birth of American music. The grand alleys and cemeteries of 1907 New Orleans provide a backdrop of magic for 6-year-old Louis as he navigates the colorful intricacies of life in the city and acquires his first cornet.

Winner of nine Grammy awards and a Pulitzer Prize in music, Wynton Marsalis is one of the most outstanding jazz musicians and trumpeters of this – or any other – generation. A favorite among jazz musicians and audiences worldwide, he is a brilliant composer and a bandleader in the tradition of Duke Ellington, and the driving creative force behind Jazz at Lincoln Center’s creation and success. Don’t miss this nearly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Wynton Marsalis in this very special immersive experience.  (LOUIS: Dan Pritzker, 2010, R, 90 min.)

The film is rated “R” – Restricted (Some Sexual Content)