Woody tackles the jazz scene.

Rating: Null/10 (9 January 2000)

WARNING TO ALL READERS: I am Woody Allen fanatic, so please note that this review will be somewhat biased.
Woody Allen's Sweet And Lowdown is a slight change of pace for the man who has been pumping out dark relationship comedies for the past several years. While this is the story of a man who can't seem to commit to anything but his craft, the film doesn't seem to explore the real reasons why, as many of Allen's films in the past have.
Sean Penn plays Emmett Ray, the second greatest jazz guitarist in the world. He is trapped by his second rate status, as often it is the excuse for his heavy drinking and irresponsible behavior. Aside from playing gigs all over the country, Emmett is involved in pimping, gambling, and just about anything else that has the stamp of immorality on it. Emmett's idea of a good time is going to the dump and shooting rates, or sitting in rail yards and watching trains go by.
Early in the film, while out chasing women on the boardwalk, Emmett meets Hattie, a mute girl played by Samantha Morton. Her genuine affection for Emmett and his music, and her extremely sweet disposition works, and without sacrificing his selfishness, he agrees to have her around.
Woody Allen seems to have a flair for capturing the jazz era on film. Past efforts like Radio Days and Bullets Over Broadway demonstrated his passion for the music and the styles of those days. Sweet and Lowdown is yet another example, offering some beautiful jazz with a great 1930's backdrop.
Allen chooses a documentary style to tell this story. In fact, Allen, as himself, is one of the commentators. Since there was very little plot in this one, (just a lot of escapades thrown together) that was probably for the best. It helps to keep the story moving, giving it purpose, without seeming choppy.
Uma Thurman plays a vamp who moves in on Emmett, thus pushing poor Hattie away. Her performance seemed a bit forced this go round. She had the look down pat, but here was a girl not sure whether to replay Poison Ivy or stutter like a Woody Allen character.
Sean Penn was great in the lead role. As Emmett he pulls off just enough charm, and mixes it with just enough sleaze to make us believe that these women would fall for him, despite his obvious short comings.

Woody Allen always has a fabulous supporting actress and this time around Morton steals the show. She has no lines in the film and must convey all of her feelings through facial expressions. Not only does she pull it off, but her performance is so endearing it's hard not to fall in love with the woman.
I read a lot of bad reviews about this film before going in and therefore had low expectations. I have to say, I wasn't disappointed coming out. I did find the film to be clever in many respects. I'll admit that this is not one of the brighter lights in Woody Allen's brilliant career, but it isn't bad. Sweet and Lowdown is worth a look if you happen to like Woody Allen.