Herbert Danska - Sweet Love, Bitter [Spanish Import]  £7.99

This exceptional DVD release features one of the first dramatic films ever to truly capture the trials and tribulations of the black jazz musician in white America. Produced by Lewis Jacobs and directed by Herbert Danska, the movie's plot is loosely based around the last few years in the life of bebop genius Charlie "Bird" Parker. Taken off the market - where it remained in complete obscurity for over 25 years - this recently discovered 1966 gem takes an indepth look into the multi-faceted world of the jazz life. The film gracefully tackles such difficult issues as interracial couples, prejudice, indifference, self-seeking club owners, drug addiction, alienation, police brutality, and self-destruction. Comedian Dick Gregory's portrayal of the misunderstood saxophone genius Richie "Eagle" Stokes is as riveting as it is convincing and the movie's side characters are equally well developed. Don Murray plays a white professor, who, down on his luck, is befriended by the saxophonist, while Robert Hooks gives an excellent performance as a young African-American bar owner who looks out for Eagle. Diane Varsi also shines as a white woman struggling to maintain an interracial relationship with the black bartender. The film also boasts an inimitable soundtrack brilliantly scored by Mal Waldron and with the outstanding saxophonist Charles McPherson ghosting for Dick Gregory. Between its stirring music, excellent acting and formidable script, "Sweet Love, Bitter" is a must see for all jazz fans.

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