I was born in the 60's. so Big Band Music was way before my time. So naturally, I wouldn't say I'm a big fan of the music, but of course have heard it from time to time. There are a few memorable pieces that you can't help but run across and that become somewhat "familiar". Well, I certainly didn't know enough to know the names of the songs or who performed them.
Well, to my surprise as I am watching this movie, most of the ones I would recognize were all in this one little picture. So needless to say, this man's music has transcended it's appeal to those of that generation, when someone 60 years later, recognizes and appreciates the unique sound he put together.
So, with that being said, I basically knew nothing about the man's life, and certainly could not have predicted the ending of the movie because of that. I know everyone who watched this movie when it came out would have known, and so I'm sure it was anti-climatic. But for me it was quite a shock and saddened me greatly.
I was very touched by the beautiful love story between Miller and his wife. I think Stewart and Allyson played their roles superbly and had a wonderful and endearing chemistry between the two. I don't know if the details of their courtship were accurate, but it's amazing that she would just up and agree to meet and marry him after not seeing or hearing from him for 2 years. If it is true, it must mean that 2 people really know when they are right for each other and destined to be together.
One scene I found amusing, is on their anniversary, Mrs. Miller is "out shopping". When she gets home, she surprises her husband by bringing home a baby! I know they couldn't have children of their own and already had adopted a boy. I just can't imagine someone doing this without there having to be lots of planning, both parties signing forms, etc.
This is a great movie, for the characters, the superb acting, the great music, and the appearance of several other musical performers. I especially liked the club scene where Louis Armstrong performs (except for the changing colors spinning in across the camera lens - that was distracting).
Well, to my surprise as I am watching this movie, most of the ones I would recognize were all in this one little picture. So needless to say, this man's music has transcended it's appeal to those of that generation, when someone 60 years later, recognizes and appreciates the unique sound he put together.
So, with that being said, I basically knew nothing about the man's life, and certainly could not have predicted the ending of the movie because of that. I know everyone who watched this movie when it came out would have known, and so I'm sure it was anti-climatic. But for me it was quite a shock and saddened me greatly.
I was very touched by the beautiful love story between Miller and his wife. I think Stewart and Allyson played their roles superbly and had a wonderful and endearing chemistry between the two. I don't know if the details of their courtship were accurate, but it's amazing that she would just up and agree to meet and marry him after not seeing or hearing from him for 2 years. If it is true, it must mean that 2 people really know when they are right for each other and destined to be together.
One scene I found amusing, is on their anniversary, Mrs. Miller is "out shopping". When she gets home, she surprises her husband by bringing home a baby! I know they couldn't have children of their own and already had adopted a boy. I just can't imagine someone doing this without there having to be lots of planning, both parties signing forms, etc.
This is a great movie, for the characters, the superb acting, the great music, and the appearance of several other musical performers. I especially liked the club scene where Louis Armstrong performs (except for the changing colors spinning in across the camera lens - that was distracting).