The Jazz Singer

The Jazz Singer was the first "talkie," or movie that featured vocals. The Jazz Singer was released in 1927 and is considered a musical. Directed by Alan Crosland and starring Al Jolson, The Jazz Singer ushered the end of the silent film era.

What sounds to be like a coming of age tale, The Jazz Singer depicts the fictional story of Jakie Rabinowitz. Jakie is a young man who defies the traditions of his devout Jewish family. After he sings popular tunes in a beer garden he is punished by his father, a cantor. This prompts Jakie to run away from home. Several years later, Jakie is a successful jazz singer. However, he attempts to build a career as an entertainer but his professional ambitions ultimately come into conflict with the demands of his home and heritage.