The documentary film, Killing Me Softly With His Songs, released in 2024 and directed by Danny Gold, offers an intimate exploration into the life and illustrious career of composer Charles Fox. This spirited film takes viewers on a global journey alongside Fox, tracing his path from his early days to his current musical endeavors. More than just a biography, the documentary is a vibrant celebration of music, showcasing performances of Fox’s iconic songs by a diverse array of talented artists from around the world.
From the bustling streets of the US to the romantic ambiance of Paris and the vibrant cultural heart of Havana, Cuba, Killing Me Softly With His Songs captures Fox’s personal and professional evolution. Following Intrada’s release of Fox’s Foul Play on 2-CD, this documentary’s soundtrack introduces brand new songs born from collaborations with notable figures like Rita Wilson, Common, Alain Boublil, and Cuban songwriters Edesio and Cristian Alejandro. The film has already garnered significant acclaim, securing numerous awards at prestigious film festivals and being honored as Best Music Documentary at the Hollywood Music In Media Awards, highlighting its quality and appeal.
The soundtrack album is a rich tapestry of musical innovation, featuring fresh interpretations of Fox’s timeless classics. Audiences can enjoy:
- “Sing a Brand New Song” – Donald Webber, Jr. delivers a powerful rendition.
- “Viene Acabando” – Charles Fox collaborates with the Cuba All Star Band and Orquesta Aragon for a lively Cuban flavor.
- “At The Movies” – Rita Wilson and Jason Alexander bring their unique talents to this track.
- “Wonder Woman” – Cristian Alejandro offers a dynamic take on this iconic theme.
- “I Got a Name” – A. J. Croce, son of Jim Croce, presents a soulful performance.
- “Night Life” – Charles Fox Paris Sextette creates a sophisticated Parisian atmosphere.
- “On N’aime Qu’une Fois Comme Ça” and “Elle Chantait Ma Vie En Musique” – Anne Sila, known from The Voice France, lends her captivating vocals.
- “Sin Tu Amor” – Cristian Alejandro returns with another passionate performance.
- “Ballade” and “A Day Our Love Has Put Together” – Charles Fox again teams up with the Cuba All Star Band for enchanting melodies.
- “Blue Pachanga” and “Salsa Suite” – The Charles Fox Paris Sextette, featuring Alexandre Desplat, brings energetic instrumental pieces.
- “Happy Days” – Barenaked Ladies offer a fun, contemporary twist on this classic theme.
- “Killing Me Softly With His Song” – Charles Fox himself performs a poignant piano solo, a highlight for fans of “Killing Me Softly With His Song Killing Me Softly”.
Killing Me Softly With His Songs delves into the depths of Fox’s journey, from his upbringing in the Bronx to his formative years in Paris. His education at the conservatoire in the Palace of Fontainebleau, under the tutelage of the renowned Nadia Boulanger – who also mentored musical giants like Aaron Copland and Quincy Jones – is explored. The film then navigates through his celebrated Hollywood career, ultimately leading back to his musical origins in Havana, Cuba. Interwoven with these biographical elements are breathtaking live music sequences, skillfully filmed to capture the joyous synergy between musicians creating magic in real-time.
Featuring an impressive roster of artists including Anne Sila, A.J. Croce, Henry Winkler from Happy Days and Barry, Academy Award winner Paul Williams, Rita Wilson, Jason Alexander, Donald Webber, Jr. from Hamilton, two-time Academy Award winner Alexandre Desplat, and Tony Award winner Alain Boublil, Killing Me Softly With His Songs is more than just a documentary. It is a “killing me softly with his song killing me softly” experience, a true musical feast interwoven with a compelling life story, guaranteed to resonate with audiences worldwide.
