The Jazz Singer
The Jazz Singer

The Jazz Singer

1980Movie115 minEnglish

A young Jewish man is torn between tradition and individuality when his old-fashioned family objects to his career as a jazz singer.

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Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes30%
Google Users65%
Director: Richard FleischerGenres: Drama, Musical, Romance

Plot Summary

A singer with a rebellious spirit, Jess Robin, struggles to balance his devout Orthodox Jewish upbringing with his dream of becoming a pop music star. Torn between his family's traditions and his passion for modern music, he navigates complex relationships with his father, his wife, and a club singer who becomes his muse. His journey culminates in a powerful performance that challenges traditional expectations.

Critical Reception

The 1980 remake of 'The Jazz Singer' received a mixed to negative reception from critics, who often found it to be an unnecessary and inferior update to the classic 1927 film. While Neil Diamond's performance and some of the musical numbers were acknowledged, the plot and overall execution were frequently criticized for being dated and melodramatic.

What Reviewers Say

  • Neil Diamond's charisma is a highlight, but it's not enough to elevate this remake.
  • The film suffers from a predictable plot and dated melodrama.
  • While the musical numbers have energy, they can't save the overall weak narrative.

Google audience: Audiences were divided, with many appreciating Neil Diamond's star power and the musical performances. However, a significant portion found the story to be overly sentimental and lacking the impact of the original.

Awards & Accolades

Neil Diamond was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. The film also received a Razzie Award nomination for Worst Original Song.

Fun Fact

Neil Diamond wrote five new songs for this remake, in addition to performing classic tunes. He also co-wrote the screenplay with his then-wife Marcia Murphee.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
MK40

MK40

Very disappointing. The main character, Jess Robin, is a self-centered and apathetic individual who walks out on his wife (telling her that he would only be gone for two weeks) to pursue a recording contract. He does not return home and ins...