Original subtitles

*Click*

*Projector started.*

*Piano sounds*

*Click*

(Mann) 700 miles from Cologne,

wo Keith Jarrett gave a concert in 1975,

The Sistine Chapel is located.

400 years before Keith took the stage,

Michelangelo stood there a scaffold and painted the ceiling.

Today everyone can visit the chapel.

But imagine if you had Michelangelo seen on the scaffolding.

This is something completely different, not true?

This is not a movie about "The Köln Concert".

It is not about the mural, the ceiling or by Michelangelo.

It's about the scaffolding.

*Jazz piano music*

INSPIRED BY A TRUE STORY

TOLD BY VERA BRANDES HERSELF

(Be) Why do I start here?

*Muffled babble*

*Piano music swells.*

(Vera, whispering) Oh, he came.

Shit.

(Woman) Vera, there you are!

(guests) Happy Birthday, Vera!

50 and still such a jazz bunny.

With a furry paw already in the grave.

I brought cake.

- I need something to drink. - I did too, come on.

(Choral singing) #Happy Birthday, dear Vera.#

#Happy Birthday to you!#

*Jubelrufe*

*Tired*

(Woman) Network!

No no no!

(Everyone) Speak! - (Woman) Come on, come on!

*Someone hits with cutlery against a glass.*

Excuse me. Good evening.

Um, Vera...

is, like you, um...

probably everyone knows my daughter.

*Spoons are hit glasses.*

When she was young,... She had a lot of potential there.

Mind.

Good looks.

She could have become a judge. Doctor. Or diplomat.

But now we are here. She turned 50 years old.

A good moment, to take stock. And...

I must say...

It is, without doubt, the greatest Disappointment of my life.

*Click*

Let’s start again!

*Shrill whistle*

*Film rewinds.*

In the music business it is called "False Start",

if a recording is stopped in the middle,

if someone messes up or it doesn't feel right.

My personal favorite is definitely that of The Cramps.

*Intro: I Was a Teenage Werewolf/ The Cramps*

*Intro stops.*

(Conversation in the recording) "What What are you doing?" - "Nothing..."

"No! We're recording a shitty album! Fuck off or sit down!

Nobody stops the damn tape, when The Cramps are in the studio."

Certainly very lovely people.

How to interrupt a recording, says a lot about the musicians.

Dylan laughs at the failed Try to get to "Highway 61" easily.

*Intro: Highway 61 Revisited/ Bob Dylan*

*Laughter in the recording* *Song stops.*

(Dylan, laughing) "Okay, Let's try again."

Stan Getz apologizes, Fleetwood Mac are arguing.

Lee Hazlewood you can hear spitting.

But Bird and Miles

just whistle.

*Whistle*

Let's try again. Younger.

*Live Jazz Music*

One!

They're quite good.

For English people, who play jazz, it works!

He owns a club in London: "Ronnie Scott's".

I wonder, what he calls his cock.

Ronnie Scotts Ronnie Scott? By Ronnie Scott?

I'm Ronnie Scott and we make a break before I melt away.

*Jubelrufe*

He's funny.

So funny not now either.

I'll be right back. - Vera, please don't.

Oh, sorry.

What kind of ice cream would you like?

A cold one?

(Woman) This is my ice cream!

- You're a sweetheart. - (Man) What's that?

*Babble of voices and quiet jazz music*

(Isa) How do you do that? - Was?

Act like you own the store. - I just pretend.

(One) Anyway, it works.

Great. Now he's coming over.

Can I lovely ladies what to spend?

I ask because at the bar There is supposedly a senior discount.

Shall we?

Clear.

*Quiet piano music*

How old are you?

25.

I remember when I was 25.

A very long time ago, wasn't it?

Do you like jazz? - If he's good.

Who do you like?

Coltrane.

Was that it? The list begins and ends with Coltrane?

Miles... Mingus, Gordon...

Sonny... Monk...

And my jazz?

Of...

need one better drummer.

*Ronnie laughs.*

That hurts me now. - Gut.

Are you like that with everyone?

Or just with the good-looking ones?

You are an old man, which takes place in an ice cream parlor.

How would you like that I talk to you?

Friendly. - What about grandparents?

I would let my grandchild never to such a place.

And why? - Well, too much sax.

With an A. What were you thinking?

That was bad.

Ah, here we are. My hotel.

Your hotel? - Yes.

May I ask you something? - No, if you can kiss me, right?

Are you booking a tour for me?

A tour? - Yes, in Germany.

Why should I?

I'll pay you. 10% of my fee.

Why me? I've never done that before.

Because to you definitely no one says no.

Good night, Vera Brandes.

*keys rattling*

*Door is closed.*

A tour?

Good night!

*The door squeaks quietly.*

*The stairs creak quietly.*

(Father) You have school tomorrow.

I didn't notice that it is so late.

- Where have you been?

Bei Isa.

I can smell the cigarettes. I talk to you, young lady.

Like a whore. Come home in the middle of the night.

Would you mind?

You were in that jazz club, not true?

If you only have half of the want to achieve what I have achieved,

you have to take another route hit, young lady.

He is a dentist.

Open your mouth.

*The drill whirs.* *screams*

*Muffled screams*

This must be Mr. Königs root canal.

What are you doing here?

Hello.

I book a tour for Ronnie Scott.

"I'm booking a tour..."

I am 18, can't find a job...

"I am planning fantasy concerts for pensioners, whom I met yesterday."

(Mother) Stop now!

Sit down.

*Vera sighs in annoyance.*

*Muffled screams*

*The door creaks.*

(Vera) The best thing about father's practice: a private telephone connection.

What am I even trying to say?

Hello. I am Vera Brandes, I...

I book a tour for Ronnie Scott.

Yes, hello, This is Vera Brandes,

I am currently booking a tour for Ronnie Scott.

Will people come?

Of course they will. Are you joking?

*clears throat* Hello, this is Vera Brandes.

I book a tour for the Ronnie Scott Trio.

"For whom?"

Ronnie Scott, the jazz musician.

Hello?

Hello, this is Vera Brandes. Sorry for the late interruption.

I am currently booking a tour for the Ronnie Scott Trio.

A year and a half earlier?

Oh, one second, someone's coming in. I'll call back right away.

*School bell* (Isa) What's wrong with you?

Nobody knows that Ronnie Scott is famous.

Maybe I'll do something wrong.

Or it is the practice. She's so depressing.

If someone from England is in the record store calls, the boss becomes friendlier.

Then I should call from England. - You have to get there first.

Could i beg a cigarette?

Who are you?

Oliver. I just moved here.

Where did you move from? - Hanover.

Hanover. - Hanover.

*Both whistle.* What do you do for fun?

We organize Resistance against

oppressive political systems.

Do you have any steady friends?

We don't believe to steady friends.

(Man) Be!

*Honks*

(Vera) I have to!

*Laugh*

Who is that?

Her boyfriend.

This goes here not to school.

No. He goes here not to school.

*Rhythmic music*

(Be) HI!

Pretend you're a club owner. I'll call you.

And November is not possible, but then, December 1st would be great.

So you will only work for that guy?

I will Concert promoter.

He wants to sleep with you, you know that.

Shall we try it?

Gut.

Hello. - You know what?

We do it in English.

All right. Hello?

Hi. I'm booking a tour for Ronnie Scott.

Who is Ronnie Scott? - The jazz musician.

Oh, how terrible, I hate his music.

Please never call again. Thanks, bye.

*Happy music*

Manager.

I am the concert...

Boss... Organizer... Booker... the concert...

*Knock*

(Brother) Vera, hello! - I promote.

(Brother) You are there been in there for 30 minutes.

(Be) Promoter.

I am the concert promoter by Ronnie Scott.

You seriously ask whether the People want to see Ronnie Scott?

Of course they want that.

I will fill the hall. They will dance.

*Knock*

Do you know who I am?

Vera Brandes.

*The music stops.*

Just improvise.

*Rufton*

Improvise.

"Bunker Ulmenwall, hallo?"

"Hello?"

Yes, hello, this is Vera Brandes. I'm calling from London.

Can I please speak with your Speak to a booking manager?

"Am Telefon." - Great.

I book a tour for the Ronnie Scott Trio.

It will take place from 9 to 13 October be in the city.

"The 10th would be free." - The 10th!

Yeah, okay, great...

"What is your share?" - How high?

One moment please...

650.

"I'll give you 20% of ticket sales."

20%, perfect. Sounds perfect.

"Soundcheck at three, doors open at seven, Show um acht."

Was? Sorry, I did not understand.

It is very loud here in the tour bus.

Soundcheck... - "At seven, It starts at eight."

"Do you have that?" - Yes, I do, absolutely. So much so.

Yes, concert at eight. - "See you then."

Okay, see you then. Thank you thank you.

Bye.

Holy shit.

Guess who is has booked her first concert!

*Sound of horror*

*Lied: Mother Sky/ CAN*

*Driving rock music*

This is Vera Brandes from London. Can I speak to the booking manager?

Yes, hello. I'm booking a tour for Ronnie Scott.

He will be in town on October 15th. Ronnie Scott. I'm his agent.

40% of revenue.

Whoever has money has power. Whoever has power has the right.

See you then.

Vera Brandes, I'm booking a tour for Ronnie Scott, he's coming...

To obey is to lie.

...on October 13th.

Sound check at four.

Out of the way, capitalists, the We win the last battle.

See you then.

Can I use the Booking Manager speak? It's important.

Fantastic.

I'm sorry, what? I didn't hear you.

(Teacher) So, as follows summarized...

(Ronnie) There she is!

You can still make money with jazz. Apparently.

Apparently.

I have to go. Bye, Ronnie.

*Loud cough*

Another triple. If she comes back.

*Driving music continues.*

I would say 50% of the bar and 10% of the entrance fee.

Explore God within you, by letting the animal inside you out.

They play standards.

From now on you won't hear anything else. - CAN?

The newspaper says that means "communism, Anarchism, Nihilism".

Some say it comes from the Turkish "çan" for "life", "soul".

Do you want to know the truth?

They collected suggestions in a tin can,

two wrote "CAN" on their notes. That's it.

Thank you thank you.

*The music stops.*

(Mother) No, you take care take care of the water damage!

In two weeks The Engelmann family moves in.

There is such a strange smell in practice this morning.

(Vera) Aha.

(Father) Fritz, what are your plans for today?

Another day sit around and do nothing?

He's trying hard.

Losers make an effort Winners get the job.

I'm not a loser. - No? To me you look like one.

Does this have to happen with cigarette smoking be at breakfast?

Yes.

Where is she going again? - School!

So, come in. It's not big, but...

(Vera) Soon I was earning enough to rent a small "office".

Light-flooded, best location and a very reasonable price.

I'll take it. - Gladly.

(Be) No!

No, the 4th one doesn't work.

Absolutely not! not for this amount!

Ralph Towner will not be three Miss concerts and with you...

So, open your mouth. - What is that?

This is the body of Christ.

Listen to the nice gentleman.

(Vera) I just want to understand why They think that's my problem.

Very good.

(Vera) I don't complicate anything, I'm just protecting my artist.

Then listen to me, then come... You know what? Then drive it!

What are you doing to me? - Corrupt you.

(Vera) Listen, that's impossible.

"Miss, that's not how it works! The concert must take place."

(Vera) Yes, good. Learn to use it.

Don't yell at me.

*Incomprehensible Telephone voice*

(One) Lesson 2, Floh de Cologne.

*Song: Be still/ Floh from Cologne*

*Fast rock music*

(Sings along silently) #You love, while you're young.#

#Later you get married.#

(silently) #But I want Don't always just obey!#

#Be calm, Assembly line baby, get married.#

#But I don't always want do the same!#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, Start a family!#

#But I don't always want work and do housework!#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, Buy a car!#

#But I don't always want to have children, work and do housework!#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, Build a house!#

#But I don't want to totally verbose!#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, TV!#

#But I want don't ruin my health!#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, prepare for old age.#

#But I don't want to...#

#Be quiet, assembly line baby, work!#

#Work is fun!#

*Yells*

(Mann) Be quiet down there!

Nothing can silence!

*Everyone laughs and shouts.*

#finishwork triple the fun!#

#Weekend has Cock in mouth!#

*The music stops.*

*Vera hums.*

*Removed voices*

*Steps on the stairs*

Morning! Get up.

*The parents arguing in the background.*

I know what you're up to.

Was?

I know that you are here you don't sleep at all anymore.

I know that you have an apartment.

I can ruin everything for you. - You don't dare.

(Fritz) Try it out.

You are disturbed.

It's 7:40 a.m., Vera. - Will you drive me?

Yes.

What do you want?

Work.

*Lied: Hallogallo/ Neu!*

*Driving rock music*

(Fritz) You didn't tell me that we drive all night.

You pay me for this not enough.

You want more money?

Then just do your work.

I don't work for you.

And whether you work for me.

Hurry up!

(Jan, impatiently) Oliver, get ready now, come on!

*Police siren*

(Jan) Schnell, schnell!

(Jan) The. - Fahr.

*Driving music continues.*

*Incomprehensible Megaphone voice *

(TV announcer) "They feel oppressed.

These declarations not only those who are dissatisfied, those who demonstrate."

(Women shout) "My belly belongs to me!"

(TV announcer) "Most women want the deadline solution.

Overall, 73 percent of all women,

that the Bundestag decides on the deadline solution."

(Reporter 1) They have dozens Jazz artists brought to Cologne.

How do you get along in contact with so many musicians?

To eat ice.

(Reporter 1) If you are at your age don't listen to rock 'n' roll?

We don’t like being told what we should hear.

(Reporter 1) Us? - My friends.

(Reporter 2) Friends from high school? - Some, yes.

(Reporter 1) Do you believe in love?

(Reporter 1) Are you in favor of abortion?

I am... against Nazis.

(Reporter 1) Do you have a steady boyfriend?

I don't know. Do you have one?

(Reporter 2) Is it okay if a Woman uses her appearance,

to gain advantages to obtain?

If she wants to.

What do you want from life?

Die. And then become immortal.

(Reporter 2) You are quoting Godard. Just the wrong way around.

*Mocking laughter*

I'm more practical.

*Music stops.*

*Give*

(Fritz) This is exploitation the working class!

(Vera) Yes. Look, that this is straight!

That's just not fair. I have a high school diploma.

I deserve better.

It's just like Dad says...

(Teacher) Which picture is for the sentence: "The feminist seed..."

Miss Brandes! "The Feminist Seed..."

(Father) Where do you think you're going now? - Berlin.

Jazztage. I'll be back on Monday.

Absolutely not. Who gave you permission to do this?

I don't need permission. - Vera, I'm not paying for this.

I need nor your money.

You stay here. - Don't touch me.

(Mrs.) Dr. Brandes. - Hello, Ms. Menken.

(Mrs. Menken) Is everything in Is everything in order at your place?

Everything's fine, yes. It's all ok.

1974, the Ramones are founded, Disco is about to break through,

but in Berlin is all about jazz.

*Wild jazz music*

*Shrill sounds*

Berlin has the best Jazz festival in the world.

(TV announcer) "Jazztage in Berlin.

His picture hung on every corner of Berlin.

Miles Davis, the most influential musicians

at the international Jazz Music,

was the focus the Berlin Jazz Days."

*Wild jazz music*

Do you think what I think?

Hm?

Do you think the same as me?

I don't know, what do you think?

If anyone in here a bomb explodes,

exists all over the world no more jazz.

Why would someone detonate a bomb? - Because he hates jazz?

I am Michael.

Yes. I know what this looks like.

But believe me,

soon I will be an important Part of this story.

This is Miles Davis!

*Quiet*

(Vera) In Berlin I met Keith Jarrett see play for the first time.

And the first time you always remember.

*Keith Jarrett plays Reading of Sacred Books von Gurdjieff.*

*Emotional music*

*The music becomes more intense.*

*The music becomes quieter.*

*birds chirping*

*Vera laughs quietly.*

*The music is real.*

*She screams loudly.*

*Laugh*

(laughing) Hello! What are you doing here?

Where have you been?

Did you stay up all night waited here?

They wanted not let me in.

Oh no!

Morning!

Here, almost done.

(Neighbor) Morning.

I will have a concert organize.

For Keith Jarrett.

Keith Jarrett? The guy who plays keyboards plays for Miles?

Only him. And a piano.

No band. No standards.

He's just playing something? - Nothing. Everything.

He improvises. - You smell of sweat.

You stink like a pig,

who stayed outside all night slept. - You're the pig.

*kissing sounds*

Do you get money for organize the concert?

If I get a hall and fill it.

*Jan laughs.*

Gigi's ice cream parlor? *Vera laughs.*

The Cologne Opera House. - Jazz? At the opera?

1,000 seats? - 1.300.

For jazz? You have completely lost his mind.

Do you have Keith Jarrett ever seen play?

(Jan) No.

So you can don't understand either.

*Jazz piano music*

(Michael) The Cologne Opera was built in 1902.

The building was bombed in the war

and then, like the rest of the city, rebuilt in the modern style.

One thing is clear:

A renowned house like this does not normally host...

Jazz concert?

Not a jazz concert. A Keith Jarrett concert.

You have to go to the rehearsal room. - Thanks.

Excuse me, Miss Brandes. We have a performance.

I just need a commitment. For January 24th.

Make ten copies. Impossible, I'm afraid.

Why? - It says "Lulu" on the schedule.

"Lulu"? - Do you have the Offers sent out?

The opera by Alban Berg.

Mr. Breuer. - Yes, what?

Then we'll start after that!

This will be finished at 10 p.m.

Then the hall must be cleaned and the instruments are stowed away.

We start at 11 p.m.

11 p.m.? In January? Are you crazy?

*Muffled cacophonous sounds of the orchestra*

(Man) Mr. Breuer, do you want You see the stage design?

- I'll be with you in a minute!

I will fill the hall.

Thanks.

No stage design. No electronic instruments. No sound system.

Nothing. He and a grand piano. Your Bösendorfer.

And you pay in advance? - Naturally.

That makes 10,000 DM.

10.000 DM?

Is this a problem for you?

No.

Of course not. - Nice.

Very nice.

10.000 DM?

Where do you want get that much money?

What do I look like?

Great. But 10,000 DM?

I must be young and look innocent.

If "innocent" I wouldn't be so sure.

Hello!

Shit.

(Fritz) Ah.

The Jazz Bunny.

Could i have an autograph?

I am a huge admirer Your work... - Where are they?

Why do you look like that?

Hello.

I'm sorry. I didn't know that they would print this headline.

They want sell many newspapers.

(Mother) Your director also read the newspaper.

She refers you from school.

I'll straighten this out.

Mrs. Vogel's decision is certain.

I assume

This is the wrong time to look for to ask for a loan of 10,000 DM?

*Vera screams.* Jazz Bunny! So is called my daughter!

Is that what you are now? - Horst! - This is what we brought into the world!

(Mother) Bravo.

Be!

Be!

(Father) Let her go! - Vera, stop!

*She moans.*

*Muffled debate of the parents*

*Door slamming and footsteps*

*Audible exhalation*

(Father) You came back? - Yes.

I'm sorry, that I hit you.

Really. Come here, please.

*Vera sobs.*

*He hums a tune.*

*Vera hums along.*

Is it because of the money?

Is that why you're here?

I told you. Like a whore.

I'll pay you directly back after the concert.

I've already agreed.

Do you know what I did, when I was your age?

You went to school?

I was sitting on a huge Headlight that rotated.

And tried, to locate aircraft,

who came, to bomb the city.

I saw it down to the foundations burn down.

Until there was nothing left. Nothing.

And on these ruins I have rebuilt my life.

And now I have two children.

A loser and a whore.

If I were a real whore, I wouldn't have to ask you for money.

You can run away, as much as you want, Vera.

You can organize small concerts

and pretend like you're a jazz bunny.

But I tell you, how your story ends:

You will fail.

You will fail and lose everything.

Then you go back to school.

And if you are lucky, you will one day have your own practice.

In the basement of the house, in which your children live.

But until then you will not get a penny from me.

Not a single one.

Did you understand? - Yes.

Board.

*Lied: Inside a Silent Tear/ Carmen McRae

*Emotional soul music*

#Inside a silent tear,#

#I have a silent dream#

#that sometimes sails across#

#the patterns of my mind.#

#For silence follows me#

#and dreams just disappear.#

*Music playing via loudspeaker.*

#What is reality#

#and can it be defined?#

#When you're a fool like me#

#it's never really clear.#

*The music stops.*

What about happened to your face?

The patriarchy.

Yes?

(sighs) Nothing.

You should go now.

Oh?

Perhaps you deserve it.

*Loud knocking*

(Jan, shouting) Be!

Who is that? - (Jan) Open the door!

My friend.

*Loud knocking*

(Jan) Vera!

(Jan, banging on the door) Open the damn door!

Open the door!

(desperately) Vera!

Be!

Is he there? - Who?

I heard you have someone at Gigi's...

what is happened to your face?

Was that him? - No, it wasn't him.

Jan, it wasn't him! - I'll kill you!

I didn't know that she is with someone!

Calm down, I knew nothing!

Stop.

*Something breaks.*

*Weak whistle*

*More things break.*

*Jan screams.*

(Otto) Calm down!

*Battle sounds*

Mama. - Apart!

Stop immediately! - (Jan) Stop!

Who the hell are you?

Who am I? Who are you?

This is her mother, You idiot.

Mother?

She is 18!

(Otto) Shit, I have to get out of here.

You too!

And you live here all alone?

(quietly) Yes.

You smoke?

Do you have a washing machine?

(quietly) No.

And what Do you pay the rent?

Mom, you don't have to worry. I... work.

Hm.

There's a check in here.

This is the money you for your concert.

You get it under one condition.

If you don’t have the money can pay back, then...

you give up the music business, finish school and...

do something Meaningful things from your life.

Become a dentist.

Yes.

Does Dad know about this?

Not yet. - He won't agree.

Leave it to me.

If you take the money, we both have an agreement.

I'll pay you back.

Gut.

*clears throat*

Nice apartment.

*Clears throat again*

*Jazz piano music*

(Interviewer) "Where did you get your ideas from?"

"The ideas?

Oh, I have Millions of dreams.

This is all I do: dream. All the time."

"I thought you played the piano." - "No, no piano, that's dreaming."

*Emotional piano playing*

*Fast piano music*

We have haven't seen for a year.

I am in Lausanne,

about a story about Keith Jarrett to write for "Jazz World".

A pretty big order.

Jarrett is just starting a European tour

with improvised solo concerts.

What does that mean? Also...

One can the development of jazz

as an elimination process regard.

In the beginning there were compositions

and big bands, that they played.

*Jazz music starts.*

The Count Basie Big Band, ladies and gentlemen.

The bandleader arranges and conducts the band.

Solos are fixed.

*The music becomes more lively.*

Ah, look, here comes one.

He plays in a fixed key

and improvised on a topic.

He may only use a given Play number of bars.

Then the bands got smaller. Quintette, Quartette, Trios.

They improvised with a fixed chord sequence.

This brings us to next step in the process...

*Live Jazz Music*

The bandleader was abolished, everyone is equal.

They follow a template, They are called "standard".

SONG THAT REGULARLY LISTED AS BASIS FOR IMPROVISATIONS SERVES

These musicians bring color on a stable foundation.

But that’s not all. Because then...

someone decided to abolish the foundation.

*Music stops.*

Free Jazz, complete improvised freedom.

*Bass starts.*

Nobody knows where it will lead.

It is free and yet requires a close connection between the musicians.

A virtuosity.

Honestly: Some things sound shitty.

[BUT NOT EVERYTHING]

The final elimination dissolves everything.

Keith Jarrett has no one to Improvise, exchange ideas

and no finished idea, what he will play.

He is alone. His head is empty.

Try that. Yes, you. Stand up!

Wherever you are, in the cinema, in bed, on your couch,

stand up and sing something.

But nothing you know. It has to be brand new.

Nothing you have ever heard

what you ever thought or anything you've ever hummed.

No? I thought to myself.

Imagine this for an hour every other evening,

without repetition.

And that you would be so good at it, that from every concert you give,

actually an album can become.

You know how difficult that is? You have no idea!

Here we have Ana-Marija Markovina.

*Fast piano piece*

If the world of the piano is foreign:

Markovina is a famous, Grammy-nominated classical pianist.

Here she takes Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's Solfeggio No. 1.

Pretty impressive, huh?

But look here!

Hey, Ana-Marija, can you play something, that no one has ever heard?

No? What are you waiting for? Get started!

Take your time.

It is so much harder than it seems.

And yet Keith Jarrett does just that.

Every evening.

He moves away from jazz and plays pure music.

Nothing is predetermined, except the musician, the moment and of course...

from Piano.

*Loud, fast music*

*The music stops.*

*Applause and cheers*

*Keith groans in pain.*

(Keith) How was it? - (Manfred) It was good.

(Keith) Where are we going next?

(Manfred) To Cologne.

Eight-hour drive.

Fuck!

You can sleep in the car. - No, I can't.

We're recording. Martin is from Berlin. - No no no.

No, cancel on him.

(muffled) Seriously. Cancel him. It won't be good.

The damn coughing.

If this happens again, I interrupt.

It won't happen tonight.

Oh... But I'm extra flew here for that.

I'm sorry.

Please, please, I must conduct this interview.

He can just don't talk to anyone.

Okay, when can he talk to me?

We can do it tomorrow try in Cologne.

*Keith screams.* Morning?

*Keith screams.*

Come on, help me! Please.

Okay, pick him up, slowly.

Caution. Caution!

We have you.

I try to find a doctor.

*Keith groans.*

Hey, Keith, nice to meet you. I am Michael Watts.

(Doctor) You have back a 60-year-old factory worker.

(Keith) I once had a car pushed up the hill,

there is an intervertebral disc slipped.

(Doctor) Your way of playing doesn't really help.

You know who I am?

Of course. You have played for Miles Davis.

This will on my tombstone.

You should probably stop.

To play?

To move.

They play well enough. There's no need for this fuss.

Since when does he have back problems?

He is a very withdrawn person.

You are not allowed to write any of this. - Naturally.

The Huster in the Public? Does he always complain about it?

You just don't get it.

Then help me.

To reach this level,

he must be hyper-focused

and at the same time completely relaxed.

He is so in the moment,

that every little thing...

around him...

influenced the music.

Every camera click is like a Club to the head.

That's good, that's really good.

You can't use that. - Yes, no, of course not.

(Keith) It's okay.

Just stop it! - Okay.

Here we are.

*Keith groans in pain.*

Oh God.

(Manfred) Okay so far?

Okay.

Thanks for your help.

Of course.

If you want, we can try

the interview to do tomorrow in Cologne.

Yes.

Yes, Cologne. I just have to find a way get there.

All right then.

Take care, Keith. Maybe see you in Cologne.

Wait!

Wait! Thank God.

Hi, I'm sorry. The truth is:

I don't have a car.

It's late. Would you take to Cologne?

No interviews. - Of course not.

Great, thanks.

Oh my God. Thanks.

It's nice and warm in here.

(Michael) Shall we go to the bus? - (Keith) To the bus?

(Michael) To your tour bus.

Are you with this car on tour?

Listen, man: Stop!

Yes. I'm sorry. - We have a long journey ahead of us.

And we will be silent.

Okay, yes. I can be quiet.

*Michael coughs.*

*Calm piano music*

(Michael) When Keith Jarrett was three, everyone knew he was a child prodigy.

Wherever he went, he caught people's attention.

At 15 he was already touring with musicians, who were twice as old.

Art Blakey, Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter, with his own trio...

And finally...

the damn holy grail.

*Sound of the recording quietly in the background*

Miles probably asked Keith three times, before he said yes.

Just imagine that!

Miles twice be turned down?

As if you were receiving an invitation to Reject Andy Warhol's Factory.

Or cancel Michael Jordan, if he wants to bring you to the Bulls in 1993.

Finally, Keith said yes.

And everyone thought: This is it, he did it.

But here it was: jumped off Miles' train,

without a record deal with Columbia,

in Europe, with a broken back.

I can hear you thinking.

Who are you writing for again?

"Jazz World." As a freelance journalist.

And, how did you like the concert?

Me? - Yes.

You heard it, right? - Yes, I have.

Also? - It was great.

*Keith laughs quietly.*

You can tell me.

I thought parts of it were just brilliant. - And the other parts?

Some parts sounded like

as if you were working on an idea stuck.

And have they constantly repeated.

(Keith, laughing) For goodness' sake!

You asked. - I didn't know that Lester Bangs is sitting in the car.

I would like to ask something, Speaking of which.

(Manfred) We don't talk.

Was?

I try to understand Why.

Why?

Why you're doing this here.

What do you do? Music?

No, I mean, you could be in New York.

Do you know what Dexter Gordon said, why he moved to Copenhagen?

Because of the weather.

Very funny. *Keith laughs.*

I don't know, whether it answers my question.

*Distant aircraft noise*

(Michael) What do we do at the airport?

(Manfred) I have to do something.

Get something to eat. I'll see you later.

(Keith) I can't eat that.

(Michael) Do you ever play between concerts? - No, never.

Why not? - That would be rehearsal.

It would creep in. - Is that why you don't listen to music in the car?

To become empty? - I'll try it.

How do you start? You go on stage, sits down at the piano and then?

I put my hand down.

Is it that simple? - It is not easy.

But it's a coincidence. - No, nothing about it is a coincidence.

Is "laying down one's hand" not random by definition?

Who should actually Interested in any of this?

The people are interested in you.

My back is killing me. *Keith groans.*

You are a follower of the mystic Gurdjieff.

He thinks we are walking asleep through life, like automatons.

My spiritual journey is nobody's business.

I just want to understand.

Understanding is not so important, as you think.

Have you ever gotten into your car and drove to work,

without a clue, how you got there?

And music can wake us up? - Maybe good music can do that.

Was?

When you play, you seem to be lost,

you go somewhere.

Isn't that the opposite of being awake?

Maybe we have different Definitions of being awake.

Oh, that's good.

(Keith) Also...

You can't use any of that. - No, of course not.

*He sighs.*

I have to pee.

See you in the car.

*Snoring*

That was a mistake.

*Manfred hums in agreement.*

Are you crazy? Should we stop?

No.

Thank you for doing this.

*Loud honking*

*Honks*

*Michael screams.*

*Birds chirp, Cowbells ring.*

*Quiet*

(Michael) Hey.

Where are we?

(Keith) Not sure.

(Michael) Oh, it's cold.

(Keith) Do me a favor.

Don't say anything.

Just listen.

*Birds chirp, Cowbells ring.*

(Keith) Sch.

Stop thinking.

*Gentle piano music and sounds of nature.*

I have one last question.

I know that sentence.

Are you ever afraid of failure?

Every night.

*A typewriter rattles.*

(Gus) That actually happened?

(Michael) Well, not quite.

Keith and Manfred are from Lausanne to Cologne, I...

was just not there.

So after fine journalistic Tradition of storytelling.

The next part really happened.

ROAD III THE KÖLN CONCERT

*Rock music*

(radio announcer) "And now from New York:

Todd Rundgren, 'Everybody's Going to Heaven'.

Because already we've all been through hell."

They are waiting for me.

(Radio announcer:) "You hear the radio library at WDR."

*Lied: Everybody's Going to Heaven/ Todd Rundgren*

*Wild Rock Music*

I told your girlfriend, we don't play jazz.

Jazz is dead museum music. - It's not jazz.

(laughing) Keith Jarrett isn't jazz? - No.

Aha, what is it then? - I don't know it.

I thought, you are the organizer.

Nobody knows. Not even Keith. That's exactly the point.

So it's jazz.

It is free improvisation. - Yes, jazz.

He plays whatever comes to mind. - Yes, that's what you call jazz.

You've never heard this before. Your listeners deserve to know about it.

Jazz, Jazz, Jazz, Jazz.

Listen, It's a long story.

But if today I not sell tickets,

I have to become a dentist.

I can't stand dentists. - I feel the same way.

So: what can I say?

Say, that it takes place.

That you don’t know what it is, but that it is "something".

And that this "something" tonight at eleven in the opera.

If you are currently in Cologne, you should consider coming,

because nobody knows what it sounds like or what it will be.

And that something so magical can arise.

I will say that at eleven in the opera a jazz concert takes place.

(whispering) Thank you.

I will get a real job have to find.

"She's still a teenager,

but already The ultimate femme fatale.

The men fall for her compulsively. And it ruins them."

Hey, this is my sister, that you are talking about!

No, that's "Lulu".

This is the opera before our concert.

How does the opera end? - She becomes a prostitute,

brings Jack the Ripper home, who murders her.

How do you know that?

You have to know the old world, in order to be able to destroy them.

There she is.

Put me on the corner from the hotel.

In the opera, ensure that everything is ready for the sound check.

And we must at all points of sale look,

that they have cards.

What are you waiting for? Fahr!

(Keith) I don't want to.

(Manfred) You need to do a sound check.

I want tonight not play.

You rest, then you will feel better.

(Manfred) There she is. - That's the organizer?

Do you have those from high school?

- Do not forget, we come from the airport.

Hi, I'm sorry, I'm late.

Hi, I’m Vera Brandes, Welcome to Cologne.

How was the flight? - We should go. - Yes.

Follow me!

It's just around the corner.

Is the grand piano tuned? - Yes, it should be.

The opera has promised it.

Go ahead.

I'll follow.

What's wrong with him?

(Manfred, sighing) His back.

We would have the route should not walk.

*Keith clears his throat.* Doesn't look good.

(Manfred) He has the whole Didn't sleep last night.

Not even on the plane?

*Sigh*

(Be) Beautiful, isn't it?

*He plays a note.*

*Incomprehensible whisper*

Didn't we say that the opera

a Bösendorfer Imperial provides?

Yes, isn't he?

He isn't. - What is it then?

That is a half-broken piece of junk.

The... That's not a Bösendorfer?

This is a baby grand piano, a rehearsal instrument.

That's not an Imperial? - A Grand Imperial is three meters long.

It has nine additional buttons and weighs half a ton!

(Keith) I'll wait downstairs.

Uh... What does that mean?

This is the wrong piano.

Keith Jarrett will not play a concert.

This must be a misunderstanding, I... - Yes.

Wait a minute, okay?

(quietly) Shit.

Hello?

Hello?

Hello?

Hello?

Mr. Breuer?

(quietly) Shit.

(Woman) Can I help you?

(relieved) Oh, yes! Thank God, You are here, you...

The grand piano on stage is the wrong one.

We need the Grand Imperial.

He's not on stage? - No!

Is Mr. Breuer here? It's an emergency.

Mr. Breuer is today Unfortunately not in the house.

Who can help me then?

On me, It's Friday, 4 p.m.

I'm not sure, whether anyone can do that.

Impossible, I was Grand Imperial promised.

Mr. Breuer gave it to me personally insured. - I'm very sorry.

Where do you keep Your wings open?

Our wings? I do not quite understand.

The pianos? Where are they kept the opera opens its pianos?

I don't know it.

A piano is missing! Where could it be?

You don't need so to talk to me.

Yes, excuse me, I'm just trying to...

What's your name?

Sabine Hofmann.

Ms. Hofmann.

I need your help.

Can you call anyone?

The technical director or Breuer? There has to be someone.

I suppose I can try. - Please.

*Charged piano music*

Nobody answers.

Try Breuer.

Do we really want it bother with it?

Try Breuer, please.

It's already good.

There we have it.

3...4...2...

5...4...3...

Hello?

Hello? This is Sabine Hofmann from the opera.

I'm sorry, To disturb you on Friday,

but I would have to Speak to Mr Breuer.

Is he perhaps already arrived?

Oh, no?

Could he maybe call back?

Yes, thanks.

No no no, everything is fine.

Everything's fine, yes.

Yes, I wish that You too,

that you have a nice weekend.

Goodbye.

Ms. Hofmann,

"Lulu" starts in 2 hours, the piano on stage is broken.

Keith Jarrett is not in the opera

on a broken Playing the fucking piano!

You don't need to shout like that. - Yes, I have to scream!

For me This is about everything.

I need a grand piano.

Here, in the next two hours.

So he can’t to play on?

On the grand piano that's on stage? - No!

*Swelling piano music*

*The music stops.*

Nobody knows where the wing is.

Can you tell me what happened to this one is wrong?

Apart from being upset? - Yes.

(sighing loudly) One of the Pedals don't work.

Okay. - The speech of the Keyboard is unbalanced.

Some keys even stick. - Yes.

And it sounds simply not good.

The sound is hollow, it has no no volume. - Yes.

The sound is too thin for this hall.

He is simply not loud enough.

Not for 1,000 people. - What, if it is the only option?

*Manfred laughs sarcastically.*

Even if this is the last instrument in the world,

Keith will not play on it.

*Piano music starts again.*

Excuse me for a moment.

Ms. Hofmann? Do you have a phone book?

Ah, you're back. - I'm back.

Do you have a phone book? - Of course.

We will need that.

And I need your phones. And the piano tuner!

I'll be right back, I'll get everyone!

All? Who is “everyone”?

Excuse me? I should Record a Keith Jarrett concert.

Where should I build?

Thanks.

*Oliver laughs.*

Everything OK? - Isa, I need you now.

(One) Come on, come on!

*The piano music becomes more intense.*

We call piano shops.

instrument rental company, Venues.

Wherever you have a grand piano have and bring here.

The piano tuners. - Ah! Thanks!

Bösendorfer Grand Imperial.

As fast as possible.

Try to be professional. Grand Imperial.

(Oliver on the phone) I need a Grand Imperial...

*Fritz, Isa, Jan, Oliver confused on the phone*

(Jan) Yes, I know, that is a special concern.

Yes I know, It's late, I know...

I am very friendly.

(Fritz) A Grand Imperial, at the Cologne Opera.

I understand that it is the most expensive piano in the world.

(Oliver) We need him tonight.

We need him now.

*Everyone is talking at once.*

Immediately.

Fritz Brandes.

A Grand Imperial.

Can you please call someone? It's an emergency.

(Isa) You have nowhere... Understood.

I regret, to hear that. Thank you.

I have a wing raised.

Grand Imperial. In the auditorium the adult education center.

(Jan) Across the street. We can get him.

(Oliver) They're letting us in. - Yes.

We are on the way. See you soon.

Come on, I'll meet you outside!

(Be, call) Yes!

We have found a Grand Imperial.

We'll bring him here immediately. - Gut.

Yes, I feel sorry for everything also very sorry, and I...

Piano tuner?

Yes. - Come with me! - Where to?

To the new wing!

Piano? - Yes, hello!

Here it is.

(Man) We were just about to send back to the depot.

I need you to sign a liability waiver have it signed.

Of course. - (Piano tuner) Hello? Stop!

(screaming) Stop!

You can't do that. - What?

This is not a Pub instrument.

The transport ruins it.

I have no choice.

Do you have 40,000 marks to spare? That will cost the repair.

I don't have time, really!

Whatever the problem, this is not the solution!

What is the solution?

(Voice) Show me the other wing.

The wing is broken!

Show me the wing.

Please.

Do you want it now or not?

(Voice) Okay. - (Vera) Okay. Good.

(Announcement) "At the start of the performance, please I the ladies and gentlemen

of the orchestra and the actors on stage."

*Piano sounds*

And? - We can fix it.

But for this room...

Said: "Show me the wing."

We can fix it. - But not to a Grand Imperial.

This is a rehearsal piano. - We are piano tuners.

We don't perform miracles.

*Ring*

*Dramatic instrumental sounds swell.*

*The sounds fade away.*

He won't play.

*The sounds swell again.*

(Announcement) "The ladies and gentlemen of the Orchestra

and the actors onto the stage."

*Operations*

*The music stops, Vera gasps.*

*Vera sobs quietly.*

*She sobs loudly.*

*She takes a deep breath.*

*Knock*

(Fritz, muffled) Is that you, you idiot?

No.

(Fritz) Let me in.

(Be) Was?

Everyone is looking for you.

What are you doing here?

He doesn't perform, I don't have the money.

Then the agreement applies.

So you give up?

I wish they had the 10,000 DM was given.

So what? What do you want then do with it?

I have some ideas. *Vera laughs.*

You know, that I hate you, right?

Yes. - But if anyone finds a way, then you.

He will not perform. - Make him do it.

How should I get him to do that? - I I don't know. Improvise, improvise!

Look at us.

I...

I look good. *Vera laughs quietly.*

Na klar.

But you...

You are Vera Brandes.

Not even 20 years and already a real jazz bunny.

(Fritz) They're coming tonight.

Who? - Mom and dad.

Have me asked for tickets.

He wants to see me fail.

Yes.

Why are you suddenly so nice?

Because I hate even more than you.

*Charged piano music*

*Quiet babble* (Voice) That's it.

How long do you need to repair this?

Five hours. And "Lulu" starts soon.

Can you work, while they play?

During the performance we are supposed repair a grand piano from "Lulu"?

Yes, back here.

You have one hour between opera and Concert. They can test it there.

No.

We can try.

*More intense piano music*

Thanks.

*The music gives way to street noise.*

(Mann) Hey! Watch out!

*Calm piano music sets in.*

Hey.

Everything OK?

Will Keith play? - Perhaps.

Did you get any sleep? - Maybe I'm sleeping right now.

Don't we all do that?

You asked him, why he does this.

Why he tours this way.

Far away from home, with the small car, with his back.

Do you know why we stopped at the airport?

To return the tickets, which the organizer sent,

so that we can make money for the tour.

*Sigh of surprise*

Artists like Keith diving maybe

once per generation.

But that The world doesn't seem to care.

Music for the museum, dead.

Nobody comes.

Is that why Columbia dropped him? - They want standards.

He is a risk.

In America, business is eating the artist.

Or?

In Europe we still have some respect for them.

You mean it is American Music for a European audience?

It is music for people with ears.

*Michael laughs.*

*Vera gasps.*

(Keith) Who 's there?

Vera Brandes.

What happened to you? - I'm sorry, I...

Did you sleep?

I have two days didn't sleep.

Have you found a piano? - I'll have the broken one repaired.

That won't help. - Wait, if you don't play,

then that was it for me in the music business.

Well, then I'll do you a favor. - I beg you.

You beg me, to fail.

I beg you to save me.

If you don't play, that was the end of my life.

Sorry, I can't.

Fuck!

(Keith) Was?

Can I ask you one thing?

Since when do you play on expensive Grand Imperial concert grand pianos

with nine extra buttons?

Do you know what I believe? I think you're spoiled.

You are afraid.

Inwardly you doubt, whether you can do it.

Playing a note without knowing exactly how it will sound.

To really improvise.

Perhaps you should thank me.

Maybe I can offer you an opportunity.

An opportunity for what?

To go new ways.

How old are you?

25. - You're not 25.

20.

I am 18. - An 18-year-old child.

And you walk through the world, as if people owed you something.

I only organized one concert. - On a broken grand piano.

With repaired pedal. - Pretty cheeky.

I have some experience with narcissistic men.

Can you in Cologne drink the tap water?

Yes.

In order.

Only for you, don't forget that.

For me?

When the pedal is repaired.

You play? - If it's tuned.

You will play?

And if you leave. - Yes.

Yes!

You're still here.

(radio announcer) "In the Cologne Opera plays

Keith Jarrett today a solo concert.

The young organizer Vera Brandes says,

It is not jazz that Keith is playing right now, but everything possible."

Today, 11 p.m. at the Opera, directly after "Lulu".

*Dramatic orchestral music*

#Come in in die Menagerie!#

#You proud gentlemen,#

#you fun-loving women.#

#She was created,#

#To instigate mischief,#

#to lure,#

#to seduce,#

#to poison#

#and to murder!#

*Loud rumbling*

#Without anyone noticing.#

*The Opera continues to run in a subdued manner.*

(Michael) It was a weird dinner.

Like a wake for a disaster, that was about to happen.

Vera tried to breathe, Thoughts raced through her head.

Will the piano be repaired in time? Will anyone come at all?

And Fritz...

Fritz had with this new feeling to fight.

Something that feels of love.

Jan kept thinking about the guy, with whom Vera had slept.

This kept him awake at night.

And Oliver hoped that the piano fiasco hadn't spoiled his relationship with Isa.

Who eagerly did so, as if she didn't notice.

So! I have to go, look after the wing.

See you there.

(Michael) Keith meanwhile... - Stop!

It's like a sauna here.

There is something what I have to tell you.

Don't get angry.

Martin is with the equipment there.

I told you I don't want that. - He is recording the concert.

This will not be a concert, but a shitty car accident.

We have already paid him. - And? Send him home.

We will not publish it. Promised.

No thanks. - Our famous Earthbeeren to Love.

*Laugh*

Oh God. - Oh man.

What a damn disaster.

*Laugh*

Are you sure that the the right wing?

(Tuner) The pedal works.

That's a good thing.

*Deep piano tone.*

We don't have any more time.

Could you go somewhere?

Hm?

They are no help.

Hey, good evening.Keith Jarrett is playing a solo concert today.

Right now, in 20 minutes...

Just look at it! - I already have plans.

Keith Jarrett at the opera!

(Woman, shouting) No thanks. - In 20 minutes!

Wait. - No.

This concert will Change your life.

(One) Vera! What are you doing here?

I have to fill the hall. - You don't need any notes.

Why? I have a few more minutes.

Vera, it's sold out. - Was?

The concert. The opera house is sold out.

Sold out?

Yes! - Come on.

*Laugh*

*babble*

*gong strikes*

(Man) Is there another one coming, or can you take the jacket away from there?

*gong strikes*

The time has come.

Let's get it over with.

*Melodic clarinet music*

*Other instruments set.*

*Vera moans, Applause erupts.*

*Orchestral music swells.*

*Lied: To Love Somebody/ Nina Simone*

*Emotional soul music*

#There's a light,#

#a certain kind of light#

#that's never shone on me.#

#I want my whole life to be#

#lived with you,#

#lived with you.#

#There's a way,#

#everybody say,#

#do each and every little thing.#

#But what good does it bring#

#if I ain't got you,

#ain't got you?#

#You don't know what it's like.#

#Baby, you don't know what it's like#

#to love somebody, love somebody,#

#the way I love you.#

*Applause*

#In my brain#

#I see your face again.#

#I know my frame of mind.#

#You ain't got to be so blind.#

#And I'm so blind,#

#so blind.#

#But I'm a woman,#

#can't you see what I am?#

#I live and breathe for you.#

#What good does it do#

#if I ain't got you,#

#I ain't got you?#

#Say, you don't know what it's like.#

#Baby, you don't know what it's like#

#to love somebody,#

#to love somebody,#

#the way I do.#

#You don't know what it's like...#

*The song continues to play subdued.*

You go?

There are people you you haven't offended yet.

I would like to tell you something else, before you go.

You were a terrible father.

And I will all the shit,

that you have done to me, never forget.

The names, that you gave me.

But if I a disappointment,

I did something right.

(Father) Goodbye.

(Isa) Are you okay? - Mhm.

I have you made a drink.

I need vodka. - Do we have.

I need a whole bottle. - We have that too.

Where are we going next?

Baden.

Back to Switzerland. - No...

Oh God.

How do you think it went?

(Manfred) Tonight? - Yes.

(Manfred) It was good.

A recording of the Köln Concert was published in 1975.

Widely considered a masterpiece,

it became the best-selling Solo jazz LP in history.

Vera Brandes founded her own music label.

She published Hundreds of records,

organized hundreds of Tours and live concerts.

Same.

Two. - Three.

*They whistle silently and laugh.*

I would say, that was a disaster.

#What good does it do#

#if I ain't got you,#

#if I ain't got you.#

#Say, you don't know what it's like.#

#Baby, you don't know what it's like#

#to love somebody,#

#to love somebody,#

#the way I love you.#

#You don't know what it's like.#

#Baby, you don't know what it's like#

#to love somebody,#

#to love somebody,#

#the way I love you.#

*The music is real.*

*Lied: Gunther/ Dendermonde*

*Driving instrumental music*