The Last of the First

Explore The Last of the First (2004), including ReelBot’s take, cast, runtime, where to watch, and similar movies worth adding to your list.

2004 · 88 min · Documentary · TMDB 10.0/10

Overview

The Harlem Blues & Jazz Band during its sunset years: 87-year-old Al Casey, who had worked closely with Fats Waller throughout the 1930s; guitarist Lawrence Lucie, 95 years young, from the bands of Louis Armstrong, Benny Carter and Duke Ellington; saxophonist Bubba Brooks, 79, who was with Bill Doggett; Edwin Swanston, 80, pianist with Louis Armstrong's Orchestra; 91-year-old drummer Johnny Blowers, ex-Bunny Berigan, Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra; Ivan Rolle, 85, bassist with Jonah Jones; and 88-year-old Laurel Watson, one-time vocalist with Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Baron's cameras record the musicians through their tours and concerts, capturing their joy in performing together. A celebration of the jazz spirit.

Directed by Anja Baron

Cast

• Albert Vollmer — himself
• Joey Morant — himself
• Bobby Pring — himself
• Bubba Brooks — himself
• Edwin Swanston — himself