little satchmo
a film by John Alexander
USA, 61 mins.
Trailer and Website:
What a story this is! The world knew him as "Satchmo." Louis Armstrong was iconic — a symbol of musical genius, unparalleled success, and unassailable character. To Sharon Preston-Folta he was simply Dad. And the world never knew she existed. Until now. Armstrong’s wholesome, non-threatening image preserved his singular career as a black performer with unfettered access to a white man's world. Yet he was more than a caricature; he had desires, he had longings, and in private, he held tightly to the things he loved. Perhaps closest to his heart was a child whom he hid from the world: a daughter sworn to a life of secrecy. From the director: "This first-person account from Armstrong’s only known child lifts up parent-child relationships everywhere and gives an intimate glimpse into the human side of an American icon all too often foundered in caricature."