30 Years of Fosse's ALL THAT JAZZ

Bob Fosse's 'All That Jazz' is a semi-autobiographical fantasy film that centers on the tumultuous life of choreographer Bob Gideon, played in the film by Roy Scheider, a hedonistic workaholic. The film was largely inspired by an episode in Fosse's life during which he frantically worked to stage his 1975 Broadway hit 'Chicago', while editing his feature film 'Lenny', based on the life of comedian Lenny Bruce.

As compelling as it was culturally significant, 'All That Jazz' is a multi-layered and frenzied portrayal of a world of excesses. Often compared to Federico Fellini's 8 1/2 for its similar themes and use of fantasy elements, the film resonated with audiences and filmmakers alike who were - and continue to be - influenced by Fosse's style in their own work.

"Released 30 years ago this month, "All That Jazz" set a new standard for speed and complexity, its structure boasting as many temporal pirouettes as the headiest art house fare. Yet the film never feels labored. It's not homework. It's showtime", a story in the New York Times reports.

'All That Jazz', directed by Bob Fossee and written by Robert Alan Aurthur, was nominated for 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor (Scheider). The film garnered four wins, including Best Original Score. The movie starred a slew of theatre and screen veterans, including Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, Leland Palmer, Ann Reinking, John Lithgow and Ben Vereen.