Jackie McLean on Mars

This intimate documentary offers a unique insight into Jackie McLean's world as both a renowned jazz master and an educator. Though it has a modest budget and running time, its captivating content paints an authentic and candid portrait of McLean during his time teaching at Hartford. The film delicately balances footage from his performances with the classroom environment, highlighting not only his musicianship but also his enlightening teachings.The viewer is treated to glimpses of McLean's personal practice sessions and playing with his quintet, while the majority of the film unfolds in the classrooms. McLean's unconventional yet fascinating lectures meander through various topics from Sun Ra to JFK's assassination and even how he mastered Giant Steps - showcasing not only his depth of knowledge but also the interconnectedness between jazz, history, and society.This engaging film serves as a valuable window into the mind of this influential jazz musician, providing an intimate look at his approach to teaching and music-making, making it a must-watch for fans of jazz and those interested in the educational aspect of the art form.