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 American Pop
Ralph Bakshi
ProducerSONY PICTURES

  barnes & Noble.com

Barnes & Noble
An animated cult classic, Ralph Bakshis American Pop says it all in the duality of its title: It chronicles both a century of popular music and a tale of father-son relationships among four generations of entertainers. Zalmi is a turn-of-the century Jewish immigrant who becomes a burlesque vaudevillian and mob-hit victim, while his son Benny dies before finding fame as a pianist. Bennys drifter son Tony, a self-destructive songwriter in San Franciscos psychedelic rock scene, leaves behind his boy Little Pete, who ultimately shines as a punk rock star. The films visually compelling use of rotoscoping (tracing from live action) is punctuated by documentary footage of Americas changing social and political climates. The soundtrack is a history lesson of 20th century music: George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Scott Joplin, Sam Cooke, Peter, Paul & Mary, Bob Dylan, The Mamas & The Papas, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Seger, and Lynyrd Skynyrd all get their due. From Minskys and dance halls to Greenwich Village coffeehouses and West Coast rock festivals, American Pop is an unforgettable time capsule that drives home musics impact on all generations. Sharon Steinbach

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