A Poem is a Naked Person

A Poem is a Naked Person is a gritty and authentic music documentary directed by the renowned Les Blank in 1974. The movie stars the legendary musician Leon Russell, songwriting mentor Eric Andersen, and talented Richard V. Armstrong. Crisply shot in 35mm, the narrative offers the audience an insightful venture into Leon Russell's raw musical journey and the vibrant cultural tapestry of the American South in the 1970s.

As Blank's 1974 masterpiece, A Poem is a Naked Person is a compelling documentary that artistically captures the raw emotion behind music, the soul-stirring power of songwriting, and the colourful era when rock n’ roll, folk, and country were blended and reshaped in America. The movie is filled with reflective streams of consciousness, roving camera work, and juxtaposed images, all of which adds to the poetic quality of the film expected from Blank's body of work.

The film offers an intimate look at the journey of Leon Russell, a multitalented singer, musician, and composer. Widely known for his profound collaborations with Elton John, George Harrison, and other music titans, Russell’s unwavering commitment to his craft echoes vibrantly throughout this film. His contribution to the American music scene is explored and highlighted, as are his candid reactions to the tumultuousness of fame, artistic struggles, and the highlights and lowlights of life on the road.

Russell's piercing blue eyes and characteristic long hair anchor the film as he weaves his musical magic on the piano, delving into the depths of rock, blues, and gospel with equal finesse. His performances bottle up the intimacy and immediacy of the time, and the enduring reverence of his loyal fans adds an exuberant energy to the film. Widely praised for his virtuosity and energetic performances, Russell's enigmatic charisma is brought to the fore, with several scenes featuring his spellbinding live acts.

Besides focusing on Russell, the film also pays homage to the spirit of the 70s, taking viewers through the eccentricities, experiments, and cultural flair that characterized the era. The folk singer Eric Andersen is spotlighted, serving as a guide through various cultural touchpoints of the period. The keen-eyed Blank captures the rich soul of the era through his immersive storytelling and visual aesthetic, painting a vivid portrait of an adventurous time in American music history.

Blank skillfully weaves together a rich mosaic of interviews, musical performances, and engaging offstage antics, presenting a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the music scene of this era. Rounding out the cast is the compelling Richard V. Armstrong, whose contributions further bring to life the heady days of the 1970s music scene.

Blank employs his characteristic anthropological filmmaking approach, filled with fascinating vignettes featuring locals, eccentric situations, and impromptu music sessions. As a unique artistic testament, A Poem is a Naked Person beautifully encapsulates the spirit of music and serves as a fantastic archival record of this time.

However, due to contractual and artistic disagreements, the film was not released broadly until 2015 after Leon Russell sanctioned its release and after the passing of both Russell and Blank, even though it did see sporadic and limited exhibition between its completion and wide release.

Over time, the film has garnered cult-status among music lovers and fans of Blank's documentary style. It’s an important part of Russell's musical legacy, a film that presents an unblemished image of the artist as he navigates remarkably dynamic and transformative years of his career.

In conclusion, A Poem is a Naked Person is a musical documentary that truly sings - filled with soulful tunes, unforgettable performances, and a behind the scenes glimpse into the heart of American music. The film elicits a range of emotions, as Blank and his crew celebrate the life, passion, and struggles of an artist while capturing the pulsing rhythm of the American music scene in the 70s. Whether you're a fan of Leon Russell, a follower of 70s music, or a cinephile appreciative of documentary films, A Poem is a Naked Person provides an enriching, heartfelt viewing experience.