Low Down

A biopic about the talented and charming Jazz pianist Joe Albany (John Hawkes), who in his heyday played with the likes of Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and Charles Mingus, despite eventually being brought down by his heroin addiction. Low Life is set in 60s/early '70s and centers on his relationship with his then adoring 11-year-old daughter Amy (Elle Fanning).

Low Life is based on Amy Albany's memoir of the same name. The role of her troubled pianist father was originally set to be played by Mark Ruffalo, who had to drop out when the production schedule changed. Academy Award nominee John Hawkes should be a worthy replacement though: the character actor is a gifted singer and musician, as can be witnessed in the Sundance hit Martha Marcy May Marlene, which features his haunting rendition of 'Martha's Song.'