Sweet and Lowdown (1999)

Sweet and Lowdown (1999), a American comedy-drama mockumentary by Woody Allen, tells the story of jazz guitarist Emmet Ray. Inspired by Federico Fellini’s La Strada, the film follows Ray’s rise to fame in the 1930s with his recordings for RCA Victor. However, after his sudden disappearance from the public eye, Ray’s personal life takes a turn for the worse. He struggles with alcoholism and often shows up late or even misses performances with his quintet. In addition, he indulges in lavish spending, womanizing and pimping. When he’s not focused on music or women, Ray spends his time shooting rats at garbage dumps and watching trains pass by. It’s no secret that he idolizes renowned guitarist Django Reinhardt – to the extent that he once fled a nightclub performance due to stage fright upon hearing false rumors of Reinhardt’s presence in the audience.

While on a double date with his drummer, Ray meets Hattie, a shy and mute laundress. Despite initial frustration caused by communication barriers, Ray and Hattie develop a strong and loving bond. However, due to his belief that as a renowned musician he should never settle down with just one woman, Ray eventually marries socialite Blanche Williams. Williams is drawn to Ray’s colorful lifestyle and uses him as inspiration for her writing. Throughout their marriage, Ray suffers from recurring nightmares where he calls out Hattie’s name in his sleep. When Williams has an affair with mobster Al Torrio, Ray leaves her and seeks comfort in the arms of Hattie, assuming she will take him back. He is shocked to discover that Hattie is now happily married and has started a family of her own.