He hammered out the savage tempo of the jazz era! In one of his best roles, Sal Mineo gives a fiery performance as the legendary drummer in The Gene Krupa Story, a thrilling biopic with a percussive beat. Chronicling the turbulent ups and downs in the musical genius’ life, the film follows the icon from his passionate youth, first love (Golden Globe winner Susan Kohner) and initial success to the downfall of women, drugs and alcohol that came when he hit it big. Mineo pops on screen, seemingly possessed by the dynamic drummer, and the soundtrack sizzles with stellar Krupa as well as special appearances by Anita O’Day and Red Nichols.
Tim Lucas discusses The Gene Krupa Story on the New Beverly blog.
