Space Is the Place

About 'Space Is the Place'

'Space Is the Place' is a science fiction biographical film released in 1974, envisioned by the avant-jazz musician Sun Ra and directed by John Coney. The movie revolves around Sun Ra's alter ego, who is considered a space-age prophet, a Pharaonic jester, a shaman-philosopher, and a futuristic bandleader. The plot follows the landing of Sun Ra’s spaceship in Oakland after being presumed lost in space for a few years. He uses his music and unconventional wisdom to confront the Black Community about their ideal fate. The film carries a content rating of 'R'.

Making / Production

The film's production combined elements of sci-fi, blaxploitation, cosmic philosophy, and performance art. Sun Ra’s Arkestra provides the music, making the film a surreal and psychedelic trip. Produced by Jim Newman and the North American Ibis Alchemical Company, the film is a radical mix of social commentary and black humour, designed to challenge perceptions.

Actors

• Sun Ra: Playing himself, Sun Ra shines as the cosmic philosopher enlightening generations with his profound music and ideology.
• Ray Johnson: As The Overseer, Johnson manifests a worthy adversary, embodying earthly trappings and providing a rallying point for Sun Ra's messages.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was rediscovered and restored in 2003, and now stands as a unique artifact of Sun Ra's legacy.
• It’s rich in Afrofuturism elements that link African diaspora culture with technology and speculative fiction.

Quotes

• “The music is different here, the vibrations are different, not like planet Earth.” – Sun Ra
• “I'm not real. I'm just like you. You don't exist in this society...” – Sun Ra

Music and Soundtrack

• The music and soundtrack in 'Space Is the Place' stands out as a unique blend of jazz and strange, extraterrestrial sounds, providing a true auditory experience of Sun Ra's cosmic philosophy.
• The whole soundtrack was performed by Sun Ra and his Arkestra, reflecting his avant-garde jazz style.