Since I Heart Guitar has such a widespread readership I don’t often post news that’s so very city-specific, but here in Melbourne the fourth annual Jazz On Film season is almost upon us at acmi (the Australian Centre for the Moving Image). This year the programme is based on the works of two artists: composer Terence Blanchard and writer/director/actor Woody Allen. Among the films selected is Sweet and Lowdown, which tells the story of fictional gypsy jazz guitarist Emmett Ray, who forever lives in the shadow of Django Reinhardt. It’s one of Allen’s lesser-known movies but it’s well worth watching (if you can stand a bit of not-quite-accurate guitar-miming from star Sean Penn, who does a pretty good job all things considered). All of the guitar solos are actually played by guitarist Howard Alden, who also coached Penn on playing the guitar for his role in the film. If you’re in Melbourne (or will be on June 8), book your tickets here. If not, you can get the film on Amazon.com.

More info on Jazz On Film here.