The Stanley Nelson-directed documentary Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool, which delves into the larger-than-life story of legendary jazz trumpeter Miles Davis, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2019. After announcing a deal with Eagle Rock Entertainment, Abramora has begun its planned theatrical release of the film. Following its release in New York City and subsequent showing in Los Angeles, the film is reaching a wider release in additional markets this month.

The film includes new footage, rare photos, studio outtakes and never-before-seen interviews with Quincy Jones, Carlos Santana, Clive Davis, Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter and more. After its showing at Sundance, the film received generally favorable reviews from critics, with Variety calling the film “superbly crafted” and Rolling Stone calling the film “essential.”

“The story of Miles Davis – who he was as a man and artist – has often been told as the tale of a drug-addled genius,” said Stanley Nelson, the film’s director. “You rarely see a portrait of a man that worked hard at honing his craft, a man who deeply studied all forms of music, from Baroque to classical Indian. An elegant man who could render ballads with such tenderness yet hold rage in his heart from the racism he faced throughout his life. I’ve been fascinated with Miles since my college years and have dreamed of telling his story ever since. I am beyond thrilled to be working with Abramorama on the release of this film that is very special to me.”

Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool is part of the American Masters series, an award-winning biography series that celebrates arts and culture through documentary film.

The film will be screened at the Broad Theater in New Orleans starting on Sept. 6. The last screening will be Sept. 19. On Sept. 14, at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and on Sept. 15, at 12:30, a Q&A will be held, featuring Stanley Nelson, Vince Wilburn Jr. and Erin Davis. The Broad Theater is located at 636 N. Broad St. For more information regarding the film and ticket sales, visit the film’s website, here.