Director: Kevin MacDonald
Starring: Bob Marley, Rita Marley, Ziggy Marley, Cedella Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Lee Perry
Running Time: 145 minutes
Certificate: 15
Extras: Around The World
A film about an icon is a risky thing, particularly if the subject is no longer with us. You run the risk of sullying their memory, or laying it on a bit thick. Kevin MacDonald’s documentary on Bob Marley’s life however, seems to have found the correct footing. It was heralded by fans and critics alike on its theatrical release. So much so it could never live up to the hype on its DVD release – could it?
MARLEY begins with the birth of Robert Marley – Bob to you and me – an introduction to his mother and father, a bit of back story to his parents’ relationship, and a quick progression to 1964 when The Wailers began releasing music. This is when the documentary really finds its feet, starts a light jog, then sprints for the next 2 and a bit hours.
Kevin MacDonald (THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND) has gained incredible access to all of the main players in Marley’s life: his wife Rita, children Ziggy (also producing) and Cedella, all of the surviving Wailers, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry and Chris Blackwell, creator of Island Records. It is undoubtedly these contributors that make MARLEY so special, recounting stories of Bob’s life with fondness and a smile on their face. Even when we learn of Marley’s adultery it is hard to hold against him, particularly as his wife is so at ease with it. The documentary is predominantly talking heads so it’s impressive MacDonald helps them engage and entertain so well; a massive nod also to film editor Dan Glendenning.
As a worldwide icon it’s easy to forget the impact Bob Marley had in his native Jamaica. The film leaves us in no doubt about his influence at home – the footage of the Smile and One Love Peace Concert is incredibly emotional, and shows how brave Marley was. And of course you have the music. I’m no reggae fan but the stories Marley tells when he sings are mesmerising, hypnotic, and impossible not to tap your feet to. The archival footage on show is incredible; Bob Marley was an incredible showman who lived what he sang every time he performed. There is sadness here with his passing from cancer but MacDonald never lets his documentary feel sorry for Marley, it is a celebration of his life and legacy. MARLEY is the most extraordinary documentary: it emotionally engages, entertains, and will leave you speechless.
Extras: Around The World is a loving tribute to the influence of Marley’s music around the world, and is heart warming and incredible all at the same time.
MARLEY is released on DVD and Blu-ray 20th August.
Brandt Hardin
Aug 15, 2012 at 12:11 am
Bob Marley has influenced the entire world with his music, which will live on to be rediscovered by more and more generations to come. His work has affected my life and my art so much. I paid tribute to him with a surreal and psychedelic portrait inspired by his words and a little 4/20 action. You can see it on my artist’s blog at http://dregstudiosart.blogspot.com/2011/05/in-memoriam-bob-marley.html