Independent American director John Sayles (LONE STAR, SUNSHINE STATE) returns to his home territory of the south in his tale of businessman blues bar owner Tyrone “Pine Top” Purvis (Danny Glover) set in 50’s rural Alabama.  Ty brings in a jukebox to jive up the bar but the short circuit that ensues symbolically emphasizes that things planned may not always turn out right.  Last resort is to bring in business by presenting blues star – the radio famous Guitar Sam – one Saturday night.

The story does not really matter as the pleasure of watching HONEYDRIPPER is to observe the people, atmosphere and the impressive rendition of the blues music of an era gone by.  Sayles’ characters are colourful and his dialogue sharp at times.  When blind street musician Possum (Keb’ Mo’) irritates Ty with a remark, Ty replies: “God should have made you dumb instead of blind.” Sayles favourite Mary Steenburgen has a small role as a misplaced socialite.

Sayles captures the mood and period of the changing times of 50’s Alabama when the African Americans still work the cotton fields and a corrupt white sheriff (Stacy Keach) can run anyone out of town.  But amidst scattered inspired segments such as the opening blues songs crooned by the fired singer at Sonny’s joint or the young boys jamming imaginary musical instruments, HONEYDRIPPER just moves along without the dramatic impact of Sayles best films like PASSION FISH or MATEWAN.