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Deep Dive: Rewind & Play (2023)

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Rewind & Play
In 1969, Thelonious Monk appears on a French state television interview show in Paris, where he faces dismissive attitudes from the host, Henri Renaud, and the audience. The documentary captures Monk's reflections on his experiences as a Black artist in a predominantly white environment, highlighting the cultural and racial dynamics of the time. By juxtaposing Monk's artistic legacy with the societal challenges of the late 1960s, the film examines the intersection of race and artistry during a pivotal era in American music history. The 65-minute documentary uses archive and found footage to present a portrait of Monk, emphasizing the complexities of his identity and the reception of his music.

Why Watch

  • •See Thelonious Monk's candid reflections on race.
  • •Meet Henri Renaud, the dismissive host of the show.
  • •Find out how Monk navigated a predominantly white space.

Did You Know

•Thelonious Monk appeared on a French television show in 1969.
•The documentary has a runtime of 65 minutes.
•Henri Renaud, the host, is also a pianist.

Perfect For

Jazz enthusiastsFilm history buffsCultural studies