Name: Always for Pleasure
Start: 2024-07-04T16:00:00-07:00
Location: Berkeley Art Museum & Pacific Film Archive

Les Blank’s most joyous film, Always for Pleasure presents festivity as essential to the human spirit. In New Orleans, even a funeral procession ends with a raucous dance—“You take ’em on out and you boogie back,” explains musician Allen Toussaint. Blank’s camera enters the heart of such jubilant celebrations—with drinking, dancing, and eating in the streets.
Preceded by Dizzy Gillespie, a rare black-and-white depiction of the great jazz trumpeter. Blank’s camera follows Gillespie on- and offstage, enticed by the presence of his vibrant and dynamic persona.
Followed by Sworn to the Drum: A Tribute to Francisco Aguabella. The great Afro-Cuban drummer and percussionist is featured in riveting performances. Aguabella, born in Cuba, where he was initiated into the ancient rhythms of the sacred batá drum, bridged traditional Cuban rhythms with jazz, salsa, and rock. With special appearances by Pete Escovedo, Sheila E., Cachao, and other Latin music luminaries. Produced by Tom Luddy.
Maureen Gosling, Chris Simon, and John Santos will be in-conversation after the screenings.