The Cool World

N.p. N.p., Circa 1963. Vintage reference photograph from the seminal 1963 film. Partial label on the verso.

Based on the 1960 play by Warren Miller and Robert Rossen, which was based on Miller's 1959 novel. The second feature to be directed by independent filmmaker Shirley Clarke, following "The Connection" (1961). Both films were statements on the limitations of cinema verite, and while appearing improvisational, were in fact semi-documentaries with carefully scripted dialogue. Clarke aspired to make a non-judgmental film that resisted the moralizing prevalent in Hollywood "social issue" films. It was the first film to be produced by Frederick Wiseman, who would go on to become a legendary documentary filmmaker, and was scored by noted jazz composer and pianist Mal Waldron, with performances by trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie.

Set and shot on location in New York.

5 x 8 inches, trimmed irregularly, with wide margins, photograph measuring 3.75 x 4.75 inches. Near Fine.

National Film Registry.

[Book #151321]