Wow---this movie is one of those that no one has heard of, but is terrific. Honeydripper (2007) stars Danny Glover as Pine Top Purvis and is set in Alabama in 1950. The Honeydripper is the name of his club, and it is hitting hard times, with interest in the Blues, which his club features, ebbing.
Adding to his troubles is the new club across the way, which has a juke box and plays more modern music.
The film is atmospheric and bluesy itself. An underlying feeling of "life is rough" pervades and fits the music playing. The movie also takes its time, especially in certain scenes--scenes that are about perfect, and I was so grateful that a filmmaker can still use silences in conversations so effectively.
Purvis comes up with a plan to save the Honeydripper, but all does not go smoothly, as his headliner, playing modern music, Guitar Joe, falls sick. Purvis bets everything on the solution he comes up with.
Honeydripper is light where it needs to be, and still preserves the atmosphere of the deep south. Very nice supporting roles, especially from Stacy Keach, as the racist, but not over-the-top racist sheriff, and Charles Dutton.
The movie deserves to be seen more. It is an excellent film,deftly made and acted.
Just a funny note. I recommended this movie to one of my female friends, and her response made me laugh. She said that I couldn't fool her, the title sounds like a porn movie! See what kind of reputation I have huh!
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