The making of the 1947 film "New Orleans" is a story of ambition and collaboration, marked by its origins in an unfinished Orson Welles project and the involvement of notable figures in the film industry.
Directed by Arthur Lubin, the film faced several challenges during production, including location scouting and casting decisions. Despite these hurdles, "New Orleans" emerged as a significant contribution to the musical romance genre.
Origins and Development
"New Orleans" has its roots in an abandoned segment of an unfinished RKO Pictures feature film by Orson Welles, titled "The Story of Jazz." This segment, alternatively known as "Jam Session," was being written by Elliot Paul in 1941 under contract to Welles. The story of Louis Armstrong was intended to be central to this segment, highlighting the history of jazz.
The film's development was driven by producer Jules Levey's desire to create a film about the history of jazz. Levey's associate, Herbert Biberman, emphasized the importance of accuracy in depicting dates and places while ensuring the film remained entertaining. Lubin signed on to direct in July 1946, and the production team began scouting locations in New Orleans, hoping to feature prominent black musicians like Lena Horne and Duke Ellington.
Production Challenges
The production of "New Orleans" involved several logistical challenges, including location filming and casting decisions. Ten days of location filming began on August 28, 1946, costing $110,000. The National Jazz Foundation collaborated with Lubin during filming, ensuring the film's authenticity in portraying the jazz scene.
Casting decisions also played a crucial role in the film's development. Arturo de Córdova was borrowed from Eagle-Lion Films, while Dorothy Patrick was borrowed from MGM. Levey was so impressed with their performances that he considered reuniting them for another film, although this project never materialized.
Legacy and Reception
"New Orleans" faced mixed reviews upon its release, with critics praising the music but critiquing other aspects of the film. Despite these criticisms, the film's portrayal of jazz and its inclusion of legendary musicians like Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong contributed to its lasting impact.
The film's legacy is further cemented by its soundtrack, which was released in 1983, featuring full versions of the songs and additional music cut from the final release. "New Orleans" remains a testament to the collaborative efforts of its production team and the challenges they overcame to bring the vibrant jazz scene of New Orleans to the silver screen.
