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64% Critic Match
JAY-Z: Fade to Black
“The ultimate concert. Now the ultimate movie.”
6.4 / 10• 2004• 1h 49m•R• English
DocumentaryMusic
Storyline
An intimate look at hip-hop artist Shawn Carter, Jay-Z, revealing the multiple Grammy Award winning artist as never before, from his background and rise to fame to the recording of his last album. The film chronicles the legendary concert of Jay-Z's performance at Madison Square Garden in November 2003. In an unprecedented event, a hip-hop artist sold out an arena in only two hours. Nearly one year later, fans and artists alike still reflect on this monumental musical night. The event was a spectacular culmination of Jay-Z's recording career prior to his self-proclaimed retirement from solo performing. Yet this one night also defined a musical generation, showcasing the evolution and reach of the world's most popular music genre. Guest performers included Jay-Z's closest friends and music industry colleagues: Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott, R. Kelly, Foxy Brown, Pharrell, and Questlove and The Illadelphonics along with appearances by hip hop icons Damon Dash.
Cast & Crew
JAŸ-Z
Self
Lead
Beyoncé
Self
Mary J. Blige
Self
Rick Rubin
Self
Sean Combs
Self
Ye
Self
Ghostface Killah
Self
Memphis Bleek
Self
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Patrick Paulson's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
3.0
“Every frame feels alive. JAY-Z: Fade to Black is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
