The documentary Sinatra in Palm Springs focuses on Frank Sinatra during the last two decades of his life, when he held court in the Southern California desert. You won’t see his kids, who were adults by then, or much of the Rat Pack, which was his Las Vegas posse. It does offer stories of his legendary temper, but far more about his generosity.

The film takes its audience to the settings of those stories, the lavish homes and unique restaurants in which the singer/actor spent his time. It looks at the period architecture and furnishings in the residences; at the restaurants, you see the tables and foods he favored and hear from the colorful men who owned and managed the places.

Filmmaker Leo Zahn scored a lengthy interview with Sinatra’s fourth wife, Barbara, shortly before her death and uses clips throughout the documentary.

At 95 minutes, the film runs probably 25 minutes too long, repeating some of the footage and belaboring some of its points. But viewers with particular interests in Sinatra or the history of Palm Springs will find plenty to like.

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Stu Robinson practices writing, editing, media relations and social media through his business, Phoenix-based Lightbulb Communications. 

Tags: Barbara Sinatra, Frank Sinatra, Palm Springs