Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story

Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story is a powerful, captivating, and rigorously insightful 2017 documentary film that shines a light on one of the often overlooked cornerstones of the rock and roll era - Mick Ronson. Directed by Jon Brewer, the film is a poignant narration starring iconic rock hero David Bowie, the all-inspired Mick Ronson himself, and author Mary Finnigan, among others. The documentary is an emotional showcase that provides an earnest look at the life and career of musician Mick Ronson, the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame inductee, guitar virtuoso, and record producer.

David Bowie, one of the biggest music stars of the 20th Century, who tragically passed away in 2016, is featured extensively in the documentary. Not merely a hovering presence, Bowie's narrative serves as the documentary's backbone, providing intimate perspectives on Mick Ronson's life and career. It is a treat for music lovers, as the film uses Bowie’s voice and original words to narrate the spine of this remarkable story.

Mick Ronson's story is fascinating, an everyday man who became a rock star despite adversities, setbacks, and personal struggles. The movie covers the multi-faceted aspects of Ronson’s life, from his early years in the northern English city of Hull to his meteoric rise to fame as a member of David Bowie's entourage, becoming an integral part of the 'Ziggy Stardust' persona and later as an accomplished solo artist.

The film shows Ronson as an instinctive musician, an innovative arranger and, above all else, a humble, highly revered team player over and above his masterful guitar work. It is a tribute to the legendary musician who was, in many ways, the unsung hero of some of the greatest music of the 20th century. Despite having a career cut short by ill-health, his influence resonates with every guitar riff you hear today.

In addition to David Bowie, the documentary features extensive interviews with Ronson’s colleagues, friends, and family members, including his wife, Susie Ronson, and his sister, Maggi Ronson. There are also interviews with key figures in his life, such as producer Tony Visconti, author Mary Finnigan, and several other musicians and friends who worked closely with him throughout his career.

Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story has an aura of profound nostalgia with original concert footage, unheard interviews, and behind-the-scenes clips that transport viewers to the heady days of the 1970s rock scene. It provides intimate insights into Ronson's life, revealing the ups and downs that happen behind the scenes in the world of rock and roll.

The movie serves as a gritty homage to the rock era and its stars, focusing on one man who significantly influenced the genre and left a lasting footprint on the music landscape. Additionally, the film presents a detailed exploration of the close relationship between Bowie and Ronson, both on stage and off, giving a fresh and reverential look at this dynamic bond.

Brewer's direction offers a balance between the broader historical context and the personal side of Ronson's story. His skill as a filmmaker is evident in his ability to present a wealth of information in a clear, compelling, and heartfelt manner. The combination of old footage, personal testimonials, and Bowie's voice-over creates an immersive narrative that is both highly informative and deeply touching.

In essence, Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story is not solely a celebration of Ronson's life but a journey into the heart of 1970s rock and roll, its excesses, its triumphs, and its tragedies. It is a must-watch for any ardent fan of rock music history. The narrative elucidates the life of an incredible musician, offering an exploration of his undeniable imprint on rock music while simultaneously showcasing his humble nature and down-to-earth persona.

Guitars wail, personalities shimmer, and legends come alive in this gripping documentary that charts an epoch of rock history previously left unexplored. It offers viewers an inside look at the world of rock through the lens of one of its most influential figures, instilling viewers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable era in music history.

In the end, Beside Bowie: The Mick Ronson Story acts as a sparkling tribute to a true musical genius and underlines the remarkable legacy left behind by a man who may have stood beside Bowie but certainly made his individual mark in the world of rock and roll. It tells the heartfelt story of a man who found glory and self-expression through his music amidst a tumultuous era and firmly writes him back into the rock legend account where he belongs.