88 Min. Feature Documentary

Philip Shane, Editor
Anja Baron, Director

“Affection and respect for these surviving pioneers pervades the film… a warm portrait. Sublime.”
Hollywood Reporter

"While several other films about early American jazz have put music in a museum, The Last of the First places it back with audiences and in clubs where it belongs. Hankies will be a must.“
Variety

“Superb”
LA Weekly

Official Festival Selections:
Tribeca Film Festival, World Premiere
London
Los Angeles
And many more

From the Tribeca Festival Guide:

"This thoroughly engaging movie tells the remarkable and deeply moving story of the Harlem Blues & Jazz Band during its sunset years for, although they were formed more than 30 years ago, touring and playing regularly ever since, its unique personnel -- pioneers from the early days of jazz -- has inevitably succumbed to the passage of time. But what wonderful, dedicated musicians they are, still playing like angels: 87-year-old Al Casey, who had worked closely with Fats Waller throughout the 1930s; guitarist Lawrence Lucie, 95 years young, from the bands of Louis Armstrong, Benny Carter and Duke Ellington; saxophonist Bubba Brooks, 79, who was with Bill Doggett; Edwin Swanston, 80, pianist with Louis Armstrong's Orchestra; 91-year-old drummer Johnny Blowers, ex-Bunny Berigan, Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra; Ivan Rolle, 85, bassist with Jonah Jones; and 88-year-old Laurel Watson, one-time vocalist with Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Anja Baron's cameras lovingly record the musicians through their tours and concerts, capturing their joy in performing together. Her deep respect and admiration for this incorrigible band of troupers is evident in every frame. A true celebration of the jazz spirit."