In the cultural center "Siguldas devons" we offer to watch the RIGA IFF Collection film "Everybody likes Bils Evans".
It's 1961 and the album Everybody Digs Bill Evans has become a sensation. There is no doubt that Bill is a visionary. A wizard of black and white keys who can create a puzzle of sounds that, like his graceful cigarette puffs, will continue to slowly flow into your memories. However, Bill is unable to return to composing due to the death of his long-lost associate and double bassist Scott - their trio, which captivated Greenwich Village and jazz enthusiasts, has disbanded. A cycle of grief, depression and addiction thicker than the fog of the Hudson River - he tries to cut ties with his beloved Elaine and return to his family, but all he cares about is the moment. Very good minutes.
Irish director Gee has made documentaries about musician Scott Walker, Joy Division and Radiohead. The black-and-white soundscape that breaks down times, memories, the everyday comic and the valgus of addiction in Evans' life after the tragedy is the author's debut in the form of a feature film, which won the Jury Prize at the Berlinale. Gee met Evans (1929–1980) for the first time when he saw a dusty, anonymous photograph – he was fascinated by the hypnotic personality of the American musician. The visually sophisticated work brings together classic Bill Pullman, Broadway legend Laurie Metcalf and others, but shines above all is Anders Danielsen Lee, who has transformed himself into Evans's charismatic doppelgänger in Tart glasses.
Curator's guiding words: Transferring the soul of music to the cinema requires directing virtuosity. To create a film in the rhythm of jazz and with the soul of jazz. For moments so felt, sensual, and for moments dark as an opening.
| Everybody Digs Bill Evans | Directed by: Grant Gee | IE/GB | 2026 | 102' | en| 16+
