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Movie Info & Details
Release Year2020
Runtime1h 36m
LanguageEnglish
Certification15
GenresDocumentary, Music
Votes25
DirectorJames Erskine
WritersJames Erskine
TypeFeature Film
Rating6.9 out of 10
Cast4 credited
Also Known AsBillie
About Billie
‘Lady Day’ was one of the greatest jazz vocalists the world ever heard. In 1971, journalist Linda Lipnack Kuehl set out to write the definitive biography of Billie Holiday. Before her mysterious death in 1978, Lipnack Kuehl had taped over 200 hours of interviews. The tapes have never been heard. Now they form the basis of an atmospheric, multi-layered documentary that captures the many complex facets of a proud black woman, violent drug addict, loyal friend, vindictive lover and unforgettable singer of ‘God Bless The Child’, ‘Saddest Tale’ and the haunting ‘Strange Fruit’.
Directed by James Erskine, Billie leans on a strong ensemble — Billie Holiday, Tony Bennett, Count Basie — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2020.
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