Bayou Maharajah: The Tragic Genius of James Booker

The read

It runs a compact 1h 30m.

Synopsis

Bayou Maharajah explores the life and music of New Orleans piano legend James Booker, the man Dr. John described as "the best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced." A brilliant pianist, his eccentricities and showmanship belied a life of struggle, prejudice, and isolation. Illustrated with never-before-seen concert footage, rare personal photos and exclusive interviews, the film paints a portrait of this overlooked genius.

Ratings

Key crew

• Lily KeberDirector
• Tim WatsonWriter
• Aimée ToledanoWriter
• Lily KeberWriter

Cast

• James BookerSelf (archive footage)
• Dr. JohnSelf (archive footage)
• Hugh LaurieSelf
• Harry Connick Jr.Self
• Charles NevilleSelf
• Douglas BrinkleySelf
• Ronald MarkhamSelf
• Cosimo MatassaSelf

Stills

Themes