Beginning in the 1960s through the 1970s, Neil Bogart (Jeremy Jordan) is a born entrepreneur who struggles to find success in the music industry. Making a break with big labels, he starts an independent company and goes head-to-head with them in a David vs Goliath scenario that turns acrimonious. Bogart is passionate whether he is hustling a record deal or being a showman and promoter as he nurtures up and coming artists like Gladys Knight, Kiss, Bill Withers, The Isley Brothers, Donna Summer, and many more across various musical genres from rock to gospel to disco. However, his fledgling label, Casablanca Records, finds itself deep in debt, and with no megahits to stave off creditors, things look bleak until Bogart’s unwavering belief in the music begins to make a difference for what will become the largest independent record label ever.
Bogart is depicted as a brash visionary, part con man, whose personal life was torn apart while descending into drugs and alcohol. Through it all, he has a knack for spotting talent and using whatever means including payola to get his records airplay on radio stations. The hit songs that infuse the soundtrack and the faithful recreations of live performances vividly recall the era, and the background stories behind the artists are revealing and fascinating.
This
serviceable chronicle, a loving tribute (warts and all) by Bogart’s son, director
Timothy Scott Bogart, aims to be more than it is but is worth a look. Just
don’t expect too much.
***
of **** stars
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