IMDb 7.3 2017 HD

Chasing Trane

Chasing Trane

2017
Documentary Music
99 min NR USA
7.2 / 10
7.3 IMDB

An account of the life of the brilliant jazz musician John Coltrane (1926-67), a gifted saxophonist, an extraordinarily talented thinker whose original, avant-garde work has impacted and influenced…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director John Scheinfeld
Starring
Denzel Washington / Antonia Andrews / Bill Clinton / Michelle Coltrane / Oran Coltrane / Ravi Coltrane / Common / John Densmore

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

brilliant influential innovative spiritual transformative complex legendary thought-provoking inspiring impactful artistic

Reviews

P
Penelope Croft
Apr 13, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

'Chasing Trane' is a beautifully crafted homage to one of music's most profound innovators. The documentary doesn't just recount facts; it evokes the feeling of Coltrane's groundbreaking music and the philosophical depth of his work. The selection of…

S
Simon Albright
Apr 13, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

An earnest attempt to encapsulate John Coltrane's monumental legacy, 'Chasing Trane' provides a comprehensive if somewhat conventional biographical account. The film touches upon his innovative spirit and global reach, supported by a notable cast of interviewees. However, the…

I
Isabelle Dubois
Apr 13, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

In 'Chasing Trane', we are invited into the sonic universe of a true musical titan. The film succeeds in conveying the sheer brilliance and spiritual quest that defined John Coltrane's artistry. Its strength lies in its ability to…

M
Marcus Bellwether
Apr 13, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

This documentary aims to capture the essence of John Coltrane, a figure whose musical innovations remain captivating. 'Chasing Trane' presents a competent overview of his career and artistic evolution. The inclusion of figures like Bill Clinton and Denzel…

E
Eleanor Vance
Apr 13, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A deeply resonant exploration of genius, 'Chasing Trane' offers a vital portrait of John Coltrane. The documentary masterfully weaves together archival footage with insightful commentary from a diverse array of voices, creating a rich tapestry of his life…

FAQs

John Coltrane's work is often described as avant-garde due to its experimental nature and its departure from conventional jazz structures. He was known for his intense improvisational style, complex harmonic explorations, and spiritual depth, particularly in his later recordings. This willingness to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories is what has influenced generations of musicians and cemented his reputation as a true innovator.