Dir. Craig Brewer Is Chasing ‘Purple Rain’ Magic

This episode of Fresh Air features an interview with filmmaker Craig Brewer, whose new film, Song Sung Blue, is about a Neil Diamond tribute band. Brewer discusses the connections between this film and his earlier work, like Hustle & Flow, focusing on themes of ambition and reinvention through music. He shares insights into working with actors Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, particularly how they developed chemistry in the recording studio. Brewer also reflects on his childhood influences, his father's advice, and the cultural impact of Memphis on his storytelling, including the story behind Three 6 Mafia's Oscar-winning song, "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp." He recounts a surreal experience at Prince's after-party following the Oscars. The episode begins with Terry Gross making a plea for listeners to support NPR.

Outlines

Part 1: Public Media, New Projects

Part 2: Creative Process, "Song Sung Blue"

Part 3: Career Roots, "Hustle & Flow"

Part 4: Personal History, Memphis, Hollywood

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Fresh Air

Part 1: Public Media, New Projects

Introduction to Public Media and NPR's Funding Challenges

Introduction to Craig Brewer and His Film "Song Sung Blue"

Part 2: Creative Process, "Song Sung Blue"

The Making of "Song Sung Blue" and the Chemistry Between the Actors

Withholding "Sweet Caroline" and the Influence of Brewer's Father

Part 3: Career Roots, "Hustle & Flow"

Early Career and the Influence of "The Poor and the Hungry"

The Making of "Hustle & Flow" and the Oscar Win for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp"

Part 4: Personal History, Memphis, Hollywood

Childhood Influences and Memphis's Impact on Brewer's Work

A Story from Prince's After Party and Closing Remarks

Dir. Craig Brewer Is Chasing ‘Purple Rain’ Magic

Fresh Air

Part 1: Public Media, New Projects

00:00Introduction to Public Media and NPR's Funding Challenges

Introduction to Public Media and NPR's Funding Challenges

02:24Introduction to Craig Brewer and His Film "Song Sung Blue"

Introduction to Craig Brewer and His Film "Song Sung Blue"

Part 2: Creative Process, "Song Sung Blue"

07:12The Making of "Song Sung Blue" and the Chemistry Between the Actors

The Making of "Song Sung Blue" and the Chemistry Between the Actors

15:03Withholding "Sweet Caroline" and the Influence of Brewer's Father

Withholding "Sweet Caroline" and the Influence of Brewer's Father

Part 3: Career Roots, "Hustle & Flow"

22:44Early Career and the Influence of "The Poor and the Hungry"

Early Career and the Influence of "The Poor and the Hungry"

29:16The Making of "Hustle & Flow" and the Oscar Win for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp"

The Making of "Hustle & Flow" and the Oscar Win for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp"

Part 4: Personal History, Memphis, Hollywood

37:35Childhood Influences and Memphis's Impact on Brewer's Work

Childhood Influences and Memphis's Impact on Brewer's Work

45:02A Story from Prince's After Party and Closing Remarks

A Story from Prince's After Party and Closing Remarks