SYNOPSIS
Allen’s pseudo-biopic about 1930’s jazz guitarist Emmet Ray (Penn) is a personal tribute by the director to a period of musical history that has inspired and influenced him greatly. Penn immerses himself into the role of the boozing, womanizing Ray with his usual intensity (this time, with a comic slant). Cameos by Allen and author Henton give the film a TAKE THE MONEY AND RUN feel, but it is Zhao’s rich photography, as well as the solid musical sequences, that provide the film with its depth. Overall, though, this is a lighthearted effort that aims solely for the funny bone. Morton steals the show as Ray’s silently suffering wife in a breakout role that should elevate her to the forefront of Hollywood actresses.