The United States vs. Billie Holiday

The United States vs. Billie Holiday

Year: 2021

Runtime: 130 min

Language: English

Director: Lee Daniels

Echo Score: 47
BiographyDramaMusic

During the 1940s, as jazz singer Billie Holiday achieved global recognition, the Federal Department of Narcotics initiated a secret campaign to target her. Led by black agent Jimmy Fletcher, the operation was complicated by a romantic relationship between them, further intensifying the situation. The film explores Holiday's challenging life, portraying the intersection of her rise to fame, struggles with addiction, and profound heartbreak.

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Timeline & Setting – The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1940s-1959

The film spans the late 1940s to 1959, a tumultuous period in U.S. history marked by social change and the civil rights movement. It highlights the challenges faced by African American artists during this time, especially in the face of systemic racism and governmental oppression.

Location

New York City, Carnegie Hall

The movie predominantly takes place in New York City, a cultural epicenter known for its vibrant music scene. Carnegie Hall, a prestigious concert venue, serves as a significant backdrop, symbolizing Billie's artistic struggles and triumphs.

🏙️ City 🎶 Music Venue

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:56

Main Characters – The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021)

Meet the key characters of The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Billie Holiday

Billie Holiday is a trailblazing Jazz singer, renowned for her emotive delivery and poignant lyrics. Throughout her life, she confronts personal and systemic struggles, reflecting resilience and defiance in the face of adversity.

🎤 Singer 🍷 Alcoholism

Harry Anslinger

Harry Anslinger is the relentless head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, obsessively targeting Billie due to her influence and music. His character embodies the racism and institutional scrutiny artists of color faced during the era.

👮‍♂️ Law Enforcement 🚨 Corruption

Jimmy Fletcher

Jimmy Fletcher starts as an undercover agent aiming to catch Billie but evolves into a sympathetic character who understands her struggles. His internal conflict and growing bond with Billie showcase the complexities of love amidst betrayal.

💔 Lover ⚖️ Betrayal

James Monroe

James Monroe is Billie Holiday's husband, representing the complicated dynamics of love in her life. He often struggles between supporting her and protecting her from the industry’s harsh realities.

👨‍❤️‍👨 Husband ⚖️ Support

Joe Glaser

Joe Glaser is Billie's manager, whose intentions are complicated by the need to protect her career. His advice often reflects the pressures of the music industry during a time of systemic racism.

💼 Manager 🎶 Industry Pressure

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:56

Major Themes – The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021)

Explore the central themes of The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎤 Artistic Expression

The theme of artistic expression underlines the film, particularly through Billie's powerful song 'Strange Fruit.' It illustrates how music can confront societal issues and serve as a voice for the oppressed, challenging the status quo.

⚖️ Justice and Betrayal

Justice and betrayal are central themes in the film, as Billie navigates a corrupt system determined to silence her. The plot showcases how personal relationships can become entangled with systemic failures, leading to devastating consequences for the artist.

❤️ Love and Sacrifice

The complexities of love and sacrifice are depicted through Billie’s relationships, particularly with Jimmy Fletcher. Their bond evolves against a backdrop of addiction and loyalty, highlighting the personal costs often associated with love.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:56

Unlock the Full Story of The United States vs. Billie Holiday

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The United States vs. Billie Holiday Summary

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The United States vs. Billie Holiday Summary

The United States vs. Billie Holiday Timeline

Track the full timeline of The United States vs. Billie Holiday with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The United States vs. Billie Holiday Timeline

The United States vs. Billie Holiday Spoiler-Free Summary

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The United States vs. Billie Holiday Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The United States vs. Billie Holiday

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More About The United States vs. Billie Holiday

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