RockDoc Day
Yes, we’re long gone from the SXSW Film Festival personally, but we did write four reports from the 10-something films we saw.
However, As promised, our trustworthy pals Bridget Palardy (cinematographer and Nylon magazine video contributor, who contributed here) and Katie Walsh (former Lionsgate PR flack) were both on the ground and they sent us their thoughts on the films they also saw. Much appreciated, ladies.
“Still Bill”
It was fitting that the kickoff day of SXSW Music was the day we decided to hit three music documentaries. Starting off with “Still Bill,” a sweet and moving tribute to underrated singer/songwriter Bill Withers, of “Lean On Me” and “Just the Two of Us” fame. The man behind the music is a wise, sensitive soul, and this film presents him in an elegant, quiet way, though not without emotion or humor. Our group was tearing up watching Bill and his talented daughter Kori record a song together. “Still Bill” brings the audience on a simple narrative journey, and you’ll have Bill’s words of wisdom and “Ain’t No Sunshine” stuck in your head for the rest of the day. [B+] – KW
“Youssou N’Dour: I Give What I Love”
This documentary about Africa’s most prominent pop musician starts off in typical bio-doc format, but eventually ends up following Youssou during the recording and release of his embattled album Egypt, a tribute to the Sufi Muslim religion of his native Senegal. Recorded with the Cairo Orchestra, N’Dour delayed the release of the album after 9/11, only to have the album rejected by the people of Senegal who found it to be offensive. This film was clearly made over a period of many years, but could use a bit more focus and would benefit from a shorter edit. The best parts of the film are of N’Dour performing, and demonstrate the ability of music to transcend language and culture. The vitality of the Senegalese people shines through, and N’Dour proves to be a compelling subject. [B] – KW
“Anvil: The Story of Anvil”
Canadian metalheads Anvil shared the ’80s limelight with the likes of Bon Jovi and Whitesnake, and are largely credited with pioneering the sound of thrash metal as some know it. Despite a fall from the spotlight, Anvil stayed together, largely due to the unbreakable bond between singer/guitarist Lips Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner. Now in their 50s, their hair remains long, jeans tight, and amps go to 11- they are Spinal Tap incarnate, and proud of it. The boyish Lips is a charming protagonist and their pure love for and dedication to rock makes you want to stand up and cheer when they do succeed. Director Sacha Gervasi met the band in England at the age of 15, worked for them as a drum roadie in the ’80s, and his close relationship and true appreciation for the band comes through clearly. The Alamo Drafthouse crowd gave Anvil a standing ovation when they showed up at the end of the screening for a Q&A. The film is more about loyalty, dedication and friendship than it is about heavy metal, but these guys embody rock and roll in their unbridled passion for the music and their band. [A-] – KW