September Songs: The Music of Kurt Weill (4K Restoration)
DIGITAL RESTORATION BY SPHINX PRODUCTIONS
PRODUCED WITH THE GENEROUS FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF TELEFILM CANADA
CANADA - 1994 - 92 MINUTES
A FILM BY BY LARRY WEINSTEIN
WITH William S. Burroughs, Betty Carter, Nick Cave, Elvis Costello, LOU REED
Nominated for the 1995 Emmy Awards for Outstanding Cultural Program Filmmaker Larry Weinstein stages a wide range of performances in tribute to the compositions of Kurt Weill.
September Songs: The Music of Kurt Weill is a visually arresting and musically rich tribute to the legendary German-American composer Kurt Weill. Directed by Larry Weinstein and made in collaboration with visionary music producer Hal Willner, the film was originally released in 1994, and is now digitally rerstored by Sphinx Productions for re-release in September 2025.
Filmed in an atmospheric, turn-of-the-century warehouse in Toronto, the production features a diverse lineup of acclaimed artists interpreting Weill's compositions. Notable performances include Lou Reed's rendition of "September Song," PJ Harvey's "Ballad of the Soldier's Wife," Elvis Costello with the Brodsky Quartet on "Lost in the Stars," and Nick Cave's take on "Mack the Knife."
Interwoven with these performances are biographical segments that provide insight into Weill's life and artistic journey, from his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht in Berlin to his Broadway successes in America. The film's innovative approach and compelling performances earned it an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Cultural Program and five Gemini Awards.