Starring and directed by Don Cheadle, Miles Ahead looks at the enduring musical jazz genius that is Miles Davis and is released on DVD and Blu-ray from the 22nd August. 

Set in 1979, the film begins when Miles Davis is in a desperate rut. He hasn’t been seen in public for six years, hasn’t picked up a trumpet for three years and his addiction to alcohol and drugs has meant that he has become a hermit.

But his record company that he is signed to is attempting to claim ownership for a tape in his possession – which could have new material on it. When journalist Dave Braden gets wind of the tape, he tries to get close to the musician in order to get the first scoop on his comeback, but instead ends up being sucked into the murky world of the music industry and Miles Davis’ ongoing battle with his record company.

As well as starring Don Cheadle as Miles Davis, the film also stars Ewan McGregor as journalist Dave Braden and Emayatzy Corinealdi as  dancer Frances Taylor.

Here is what has been said about the film:

The Guardian: *** “Like Davis’s music, the film’s structure is modal, with Cheadle getting the legend’s changing stance spot on.”

The Independent: **** “Cheadle never loses sight of just how prodigious his achievements were.”

Evening Standard: *** “Cheadle, 51, is magnificent in every scene, convincing as a strung-out 53-year-old but also as a spruce, thirtysomething Don Juan.”

NME: *** ” manages to be accessible to those barely aware of the jazz legend’s achievements and offer something beyond the usual soup-to-nuts life storytelling.”

Miles Ahead will be released on DVD and Blu-ray on the 22nd August.