Round Midnight (1986)

I have to say this might be one of the best Jazz movies I've ever seen.   Dexter Gordon gives a powerful, soulful performance as fictional, famed Jazz saxophonist Dale Turner (inspired by real-life famed musician Bud Powell).  Dale is a drunk and escapes to Paris to play at a Jazz bar called the Blue Note.  While there he meets Frances, an admirer of his, and they share an important and eye-opening friendship that benefits both men in re-inventing and saving their lives.  Make no mistake, Mr. Gordon is dazzling and probably should have won the Oscar that year (although Paul Newman was good too).  Directed by French director Bertrand Tavernier, there is no doubt that he has a deep love for Jazz.  Herbie Hancock deservedly won an Oscar for writing the hauntingly beautiful music for the film.  I can't really say enough about how good this gem is.  Grade: A.