Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band

Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band is a compelling 2015 documentary film that brilliantly encapsulates the life and career of the jazz pianist, arranger, and composer, Mary Lou Williams. Featuring interviews with noted jazz musicians and enthusiasts such as Eddie Allen, Geri Allen, and even footage of the legendary Louis Armstrong, the movie is a treasure trove of musical insights, archival footage and heartfelt reflections.

Although Mary Lou Williams may not necessarily be a household name for many current music fans, her formidable contributions to jazz placed her among the pantheon of genre pioneers such as Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk. The film weaves a stylish tapestry that vividly brings to life the forgotten narrative of this remarkable woman, whose genius continued to shape the jazz scene over several decades.

Directed by Carol Bash, the movie unflinchingly explores Williams' journey beginning from the vibrant jazz-hued Roaring Twenties towards the musically rich era of the 1970s. Despite the documentary's musical focus, it doesn’t shy away from delving into the racial and gender bias that the artist had to confront and the resilience that led her to become a trailblazer despite societal constraints.

The film does not solely reside on hagiography but illuminates the viewer about the remarkable nuances of the jazz age through the lens of Mary Lou Williams. It highlights her instrumental role in the evolution of the 'Swing' and 'Bebop' styles, as well as her unique knack to stay ahead of time despite the rapidly changing demands of the jazz genre.

The appearances of Eddie Allen and Geri Allen provide first-hand testimonial about Mary Lou's incredible influences, her substantial role in structuring the musical landscape, and their personal interactions with her. Louis Armstrong’s archival footage lends a sense of historical authenticity to the film, reaffirming the enormous respect Williams commanded among her jazz contemporaries.

In addition to the in-depth interviews, the film is peppered with a generous amount of Williams's music, offering viewers the chance to comprehend her genius audibly. Her musical compositions are used as the film’s background scores, a fitting tribute that connects the audience directly to her legacy.

Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band also acknowledges the personal struggles and triumphs that impacted Williams's music. Her evolution from a young, energetic pianist playing alongside big swing bands to the reflective composer, drawing deep spirituality into her music, is chronicled with sensitivity and respect. A significant portion of the documentary therefore covers her temporary retreat from music, her conversion to Catholicism, and her return with compositions that sought to infuse religious themes into jazz.

There’s an exquisite depth and sophistication to the way William’s story has been told - the film does not rush through facts but takes its time to mull over the significance of her impact, to delve into the philosophy of her music. The extensive research carried out really stands out and subtly insists the viewer to dig deeper into the world of this phenomenal artist.

Designed as a homage to one of jazz's significant yet oft-ignored women, the graphic illustrations ensure that even those unfamiliar with Mary Lou Williams or jazz will get a feel for the era and the music that the artist was part of.

In conclusion, Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band is much more than a documentary. It's an exploration of the life and art of a groundbreaking woman, whose influences transcended music to affecting society at large. It's a tribute to a passionate artist who lived for her music and, in turn, influenced generations of musicians. The film is not just essential for jazz fans who can explore the depths of William's contributions, but for everyone who appreciates good storytelling and has interest in history, gender and race issues, spirituality, and music. Thus, this film brilliantly peels back the layers of the jazz era while profiling the incredible life of a woman who truly 'swung the band.'