FILM-FORWARD.COMReviews of Recent Independent, Foreign, & Documentary Films in Theaters and DVD/Home Video
LIGHTNING IN A BOTTLE
A recollection of revolutionary musical pioneers as well as a tribute, this documentary captures a one-night
concert at Radio Music Hall, in which blues legends play side by side with a handful
of contemporary stars. Although
interjected with black-and-white footage of blues
performances of the past and interviews with
musicians, the film spends most of its time
covering the concert itself.
Among the most notable performances is an energetic
set from the flame-haired Bonnie Raitt, who proves
she still has plenty of life left in both her
guitar as well as her smoke-tinged voice. She also takes the stage alongside B.B. King, creating a contrasting duet,
with Raitt's impassioned rock take on the blues paired with King's slow, deep yearning vocals.
Onstage alone, King gives the film's central performance, recalling musical days of yore in his deep,
overwhelming bravado. Giving a nod to the confused state of music, King recalls being booed offstage by rock fans
far too clueless to realize the influence blues has had on their music of choice. The pop stars of today, including
Macy Gray and India.Arie, prove their musical credibility and range by taking on the blues genre wholeheartedly.
They still, however, pale in comparison to the original blues legends. Gray specifically proves to possess a musical
range unseen elsewhere.
The concert footage itself becomes long-winded, and the transitions between the segments aren't always smooth.
Still, any music connoisseur will need to make the film required viewing
as it sheds light on a time and genre of music too
often ignored. Adrienne Urbanski
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