Köln 75 - “The story of the best-selling solo jazz album in history' - confirms UK cinema release for May 2026

Köln 75, the true story behind Keith Jarrett’s legendary 1975 concert, lands in UK and Irish cinemas on 1 May 2026, directed by Ira Fluk and starring Mala Emde, John Magaro, and more

Date published: 24th Feb 2026

“The story of the best-selling solo jazz album in history.”

Köln 75, the new music biopic from director Ido Fluk and the producers of The Secret Agent, has confirmed its UK and Ireland theatrical release date for 1st May 2026, bringing the remarkable true story behind Keith Jarrett’s legendary Cologne concert to the big screen.

Set in January 1975, the film follows young German concert promoter Vera Brandes (played by Mala Emde) as she fights to stage what would become one of the most iconic performances in music history. Based on a true story, Köln 75 tracks Vera’s race against the odds: securing the venue, selling tickets, navigating industry scepticism and persuading American pianist Keith Jarrett (John Magaro) to perform at Jarrett’s now-legendary improvised concert at Cologne’s Opera House - which went on to become the best-selling solo jazz album ever - that almost didn’t happen.

Köln 75 arrives in UK and Irish cinemas on 1 May 2026.

From One Two Films, the producers behind Holy Spider and The Secret Agent, the film reveals the compelling and little-known story behind the one-hour, entirely improvised concert that reshaped modern jazz.

Early reactions have praised the film’s energy and tone. IndieWire called it “a light and zippy music biopic” and “a genuinely enjoyable tribute to the legends behind the legends,” while Screen Daily described it as “a vivid vehicle for a dynamic, often very funny Mala Emde,” adding that it “gives Keith Jarrett’s legendary gig a rebellious rock energy.”

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