Sun Ra: A Joyful Noise

Sun Ra - bandleader, keyboardist, composer and self-made myth - performs and philosophizes in this easygoing yet thorough documentary. Mr. Ra performs onstage with his Intergalactic Omnivores Arkestra, a big band with singers and dancers, that performs in elaborate costumes, adding ritual and theatrical glitter to a far-reaching repertory. Offstage, Mr. Ra recite(s) his pronouncements about vibrations, history and 'mythocracy.' Even in close-up Mr. Ra remains an enigma - inspiring to his band members and never less than entertaining to the outside world.