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Unique characters, compelling stories, and unforgettable sounds abound in SIFF’s new special section dedicated to music documentaries. Covering a wide spectrum of artists and musical styles, these 12 capture great performances and explore the lives and struggles behind the songs. Sponsored By: American Music Rentals
USA, 2004, 65 min.
Singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley had a tremendous impact on artists and fans across the globe, despite only completing one full-length album before his death at age 30. AMAZING GRACE explores the phenomenon of Jeff Buckley, unearthing great performance footage and talking with fellow musicians, friends, family, and fans about his life and legacy. …
Estonia, 2004, 88 min.
Fascinating study in 24 vignettes. Attaining fame some 25 years ago, the deeply Orthodox Pärt spent 13 years in exile from his native Estonia. He has survived to see his mystical, highly spiritual music, formerly banned, now praised the world over and plundered by filmmakers from Tom Tykwer to Gus Van Sant. …
USA, 2004, 99 min.
Folk troubadour Townes Van Zandt is considered one of the world’s greatest songwriters. While he never achieved commercial success, his music has influenced generations of folk, country, and rock artists. This loving portrait of the southern song-poet tells the bittersweet story of his life and pursuit of the perfect tune. Director Margaret Brown scheduled to attend both screenings …
USA, 2005, 85 min.
Director Justin Mitchell followed Seattle-based indie rock band Death Cab For Cutie on their recent US tour, capturing great performances and the band’s musings on the growth of the indie music phenomenon, life on the road, and the evolution and eventual success of the group. …
Germany, 2004, 92 min.
Definitive portrait of the legendary trust fund baby, former Byrd and father of “alt country.” Parsons influenced thousands of imitators and spawned a million myths. Emmylou Harris, Keith Richards and others give testament to a God-given talent and beyond-help victim of unshakable personal demons. …
USA, 2005, 90 min.
THE GITS explores the powerful music, punk poetics, and profound influence of the Seattle band, who in 1993 were in the process of recording their second album and poised to explode onto the national scene when their journey was cut short by the murder of singer Mia Zapata. Speaker: Grant Cogsw …
USA, 2005, 107 min.
In 1990, Seattle rock band Mother Love Bone had gained national attention and were just weeks away from the release of their debut album when lead singer Andrew Wood died of a drug overdose. MALFUNKSHUN explores the life and music of the charismatic singer who inspired many of Seattle’s greatest mus …
USA, 2005, 78 min.
What ever happened to whistling? This oddball doc celebrates the joyous pastime, introducing us to several passionate puckerers who journey to Louisburg, North Carolina to compete in the 31st Annual National Whistling Competition. SPELLBOUND meets BEST IN SHOW in this funny and entertaining study of competitive hobbies and simple pleasures. Whistler Steven Herbst scheduled to attend …
Legendary DJ and filmmaker Don Letts explores the explosive creativity, rebellious attitude, and D.I.Y. ethic that came out of the ’70s punk movement. With a ton of archival performance footage and interviews, PUNK: ATTITUDE chronicles the history of the vibrant subculture—from the pioneers to punk's offshoots and continued impact. …
USA, 2004, 93 min.
Through his unique School of Rock Music, Philadelphia musician Paul Green teaches future headbangers (ages 9-17) the virtues of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, and Frank Zappa. This entertaining doc follows an entire season of classes, exposing Green’s unorthodox teaching style and introducing us to a variety of aspiring young rockers. Director Don Argott scheduled to attend both scr …
Germany, 2004, 99 min.
This new film from the director of RIVERS AND TIDES is a mesmerizing exploration of the connections between sound, rhythm, time and the body. Nearly deaf, acclaimed percussionist Evelyn Glennie claims her entire body can hear. Her performances are mixed with beautiful photography, capturing the rhythms of everyday surroundings. …
Brazil, 2004, 75 min.
This beautifully crafted exploration of Brazilian music travels from Salvador de Bahia to Rio, uncovering the soul of samba, capturing magical music performances in the places where it has developed, and illuminating the defiantly celebratory spirit of an outcast people searching for tolerance, peace, and understanding through music. Director Jesse Acevedo scheduled to attend both screenings< …
