Common Sense Media Review
By Sabrina McFarland
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Definitive bio docu about beloved jazz trumpeter; language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Louis Armstrong's Black & Blues
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
LOUIS ARMSTRONG'S BLACK & BLUES is a documentary that chronicles the career and life of the world-renowned jazz musician. Through archival footage, photos, and colleague and industry expert interviews, as well as Armstrong's own recorded and written words, the film explores the trumpeter's childhood, breakthrough as an artist, and everlasting legacy.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary easily scores high notes with its look into the life of the jazz icon. In Louis Armstrong's Black & Blues, the New Orleans, Louisiana native reveals that as a kid he would shoot craps, sell newspapers, and hustle to play with other musicians. Armstrong says that back in 1915 he "always had a pocket full of money" and considered himself "always a kid who had some get up about him."
A stint as a juvenile delinquent, however, led Armstrong to an orphanage where the teen learned to play the coronet. "I became so good," he says and when asked by a teacher to become a band leader, the aspiring musician "jumped straight up into the air." With Armstrong's soaring sound and story of survival, Louis Armstrong's Black & Blues is sure to resonate with film viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the perseverance of Louis Armstrong. How does he also demonstrate courage and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis says that the whole world embraced Armstrong. What do you think about Armstrong's innovative music style?
Armstrong writes down and records aspects about his life for historians. Why does he do this? What do you think about this format of communication?
The jazz musician takes part in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement. Why is it important to Armstrong to support ending racial segregation in schools?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 28, 2022
- Cast : Louis Armstrong , Wynton Marsalis , Dan Morgenstern
- Director : Sacha Jenkins
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Apple TV / Apple Original Films
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : History , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 107 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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