Sun Ra Space Is The Place Movie

Blast Off with Sun Ra: "Space Is The Place" Movie

Ever wondered what it'd be like if a jazz legend took a trip to outer space and made a movie about it? Well, buckle up, because Sun Ra did just that. Born Herman Poole Blount, this Alabama native had a thing for cosmic themes, and his 1974 film "Space Is The Place" is a wild ride into his interstellar imagination.

Who Was Sun Ra?

Sun Ra was an eccentric jazz composer, bandleader, and pianist who was active from the '50s to the '90s. He was known for his experimental music and his unique persona, often dressing in elaborate costumes and claiming to be from Saturn. His music was a mix of jazz, blues, and avant-garde, with a healthy dose of cosmic philosophy thrown in.

So, it's no surprise that he'd make a movie that's as out-there as his music. But what's it about, you ask?

What's "Space Is The Place" About?

"Space Is The Place" is a sci-fi musical that's part concert film, part narrative. It's a bit like if David Bowie's "The Man Who Fell to Earth" met a '70s blaxploitation film, then had a baby that grew up listening to Sun Ra's music. The plot is as trippy as it sounds: Sun Ra returns to Earth after a 30-year absence to save the planet's black people from self-destruction and take them to a new home on Saturn.

Sounds crazy, right? But that's what makes it so fascinating.

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Why Should You Check It Out?

First off, it's a time capsule of '70s culture, with its groovy fashion, funky music, and social commentary. It's a unique blend of Afrofuturism, science fiction, and jazz, making it a must-see for fans of any of those genres.

But it's also just a fun, weird movie. It's like a dream sequence where you're not quite sure what's going on, but you're enjoying the ride. Sun Ra's charisma shines through, and his music is, as always, out of this world.

Film Screening: Space is the Place (1974)

Plus, it's a great conversation starter. Who else could make a movie about saving humanity by moving them to Saturn, and make it work? Only Sun Ra, that's who.

How to Watch

You can find "Space Is The Place" on various streaming platforms, or you can track down the DVD. It's also worth checking out the soundtrack album, which features some of Sun Ra's best work.

So, are you ready to take a trip to the outer reaches of jazz and cinema? Then grab your spacesuit and get ready to blast off with Sun Ra. It's not every day you get to explore the cosmos with a jazz legend.