Sounds of Summer 2018: Music Films, Old and New

All hail music! Alongside terrific new films, we’ve greatly expanded our slate of classics. We’re opening with the Beatles’ timeless, psychedelic Yellow Submarine. And the summer wouldn’t be complete without our annual rite of screening Stop Making Sense—which we promise to play LOUD, as Jonathan wanted. It’s been 15 years since we played Festival Express but we have it, and I challenge anyone to tell me that Janis Joplin’s performance doesn’t bring them to their knees. —Brian Ackerman, programming director

Among my favorites of this year’s new music films are outstanding portraits of Costa Rican singer Chavela Vargas and Panamanian musician, actor, and activist Ruben Blades. Thanks to our partnership with WFUV 90.7 public radio, legendary DJs Rita Houston and Dennis Elsas will join us to explore the musical legacies of two listener favorites: The Avett Brothers, and the Rolling Stones’ guitar guru Keith Richards. The music never dies…and we’ve got the films to prove it! —Karen Sloe Goodman, programmer

Our mantra for all film programs here at the JBFC is especially true of the films in Sounds of Summer: There really is nothing like seeing them on the big screen. This year’s lineup is no exception! We’re bringing back Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t also tell you about some of our classic selections including Dave Chappelle’s Block Party, and I Am Trying to Break Your Heart, the rarely seen classic about one of the best bands ever: Wilco. —Andrew Jupin, senior programmer

Get in the Sounds of Summer spirit with Senior Film Programmer Andrew Jupin’s hand-picked playlist inspired by the films of Jonathan Demme, or Marketing Associate Paige Grand Pré’s Led-Zeppelin-heavy mix for The Song Remains the Same on July 14.