The Doors – I must preface this section by noting that I strongly dislike Val Kilmer. With that being said, his performance as Jim Morrison was fantastic in this biopic. Kilmer studied the singer/poet’s mannerisms and speech, and spent hours practicing his singing.
Apparently, Morrison’s loved ones were not pleased with the way the late musician was depicted in the film. Patricia Kennealy-Morrison – Jim’s supposed “high-priestess, pagan wife” – was also critical of how she was portrayed in the film, even though she actually makes a cameo appearance.
The Buddy Holly Story – When my fiancé told me that Gary Busey played Buddy Holly in a film, I had to see it for myself. Originally released in 1978, Busey was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of the revolutionary musician. Beginning in Holly’s hometown of Lubbock, Texas, and ending during Holly’s final performance, the film takes viewers through the young musician’s life.
Tragically, Holly was killed in a plane crash when he was only 22 years old, and his pregnant wife miscarried their only child soon after.
The original movie poster for The Buddy Holly Story.*
Foo Fighters: Back and Forth – I am not too proud to admit that I have the biggest girl crush on Dave Grohl. When I saw him perform in Winnipeg a number of years ago, I thought I would melt each time he unleashed the “Grohl growl.” This documentary chronicles the history of the band from its beginnings – when Nirvana split after the suicide of Kurt Cobain – to present day. We learn more about each member of the band, as well as learn about past band members. If you’re a rock music fan, this documentary is definitely for you.
It Might Get Loud – Question: What do Jimmy Page, the Edge and Jack White have in common? Answer: They are all total shredders on guitar. The recently released documentary, It Might Get Loud, follows all three men and chronicles the evolution of their respective guitar styles. It includes both interviews with each musician and jam sessions where they teach each other new tunes. This is a documentary you’ll want to have in your movie collection forever, and you’ll watch it over and over again.
Queen Rock Montreal – This is the DVD version of the live album released by English rock band Queen. The original Montreal concert was help on November 24 – 25, 1981, which was exactly 10 years to the date before lead singer Freddie Mercury died of complications from AIDS. The DVD is complete with lights, intense sound and Mercury running around in ridiculously tight white pants. It’s an example of both the talent of Queen and the glorious times of the 80s.
Ray – This is probably the best biopic ever made about a musician. It chronicles the life of blind pianist Ray Charles as he struggles to become famous while battling both drug addiction and the difficulties of segregation. Jamie Foxx played the title character, and he took home the Academy Award for Best Actor as a result. Foxx was accompanied by an ensemble cast filled with strong performers, making Ray even more entertaining to watch.
Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles.*
Walk the Line – The performances of both Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon made this film come alive for me. Witherspoon took home the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of June Carter Cash, someone whose performances she studied for hours prior to filming. Walk the Line is based on the tumultuous and troubled life of Johnny Cash, and if you’re a music lover, it is a must-see.
*Images taken from Google.
