Finding Fela

Finding Fela is an intriguing 2014 documentary film that dives deep into the life and legacy of Fela Kuti, the Nigerian musical genius, social revolutionary, and the pioneer of Afrobeat music. Directed by Academy Award-winning documentarian Alex Gibney, this film explores the life of the musician known as much for his incredible music as for his fierce and open political activism.

The film weaves together the story of Fela's compelling life through the use of his copious amounts of music, recorded performances, late-night television interviews, and even a peek into the making of the highly acclaimed Broadway musical "Fela!" With a runtime of approximately two hours, it provides an extensive, comprehensive biography of this revolutionary artist.

Finding Fela begins with the depiction of Fela Kuti's early life, tracing his journey, from his birth in 1938 into a distinguished middle-class Nigerian family and revealing how he was shaped by a variety of influences. From a youth, he rejects the restrictions of colonial propriety and follows his passion for music, leading him to London where he initially planned to study medicine like his two brothers, but instead opted to focus on music.

As the narrative unfolds, the film portrays how Fela Kuti developed into a global music icon, melding vanities of jazz, highlife, and James Brown-like funk into a unique style that he termed 'Afro Beat.' Using this mixture of entrancing rhythms and political resistance songs, he put himself and his communal compound, the Kalakuta Republic, on the world map.

Fela's music often carried strong political messages and was openly critical of the Nigerian government, leading to several confrontations with authorities. Performances of songs like "Zombie" and "ITT (International Thief Thief)" were seen as direct confrontations with the oppressive regime. The military responded ruthlessly, and the famous "Kalakuta War" resulted in the death of Fela's mother and the burning down of his commune.

Throughout the film, the depth of Fela's influence is highlighted. Not only did he inspire a generation of Africans to stand for their rights, but he was also a beacon of hope for African Americans in the United States. The film seamlessly blends historical footage, interviews, concert performances, and behind-the-scenes look at the Broadway musical. Key interviewees include Fela's children - Yeni and Femi Kuti, fellow musicians, and even the Broadway show's producer Bill T. Jones.

Director Alex Gibney adopts an unbiased narration style, allowing the viewers to form their own opinion about the facts being displayed. The artful mix of archival footage, interviews, and scenes from the Broadway musical create a vivid and dynamic exploration that is passionately potent, both politically and musically. This allows the audience to understand the true genius of Fela and the global impact he made with his music and activism.

The film's keen focus is on Fela's complex life, his incredible musical innovation, and his enduring legacy. But what makes the documentary even more compelling is its uncensored depiction of Fela's vivid and contentious lifestyle. Gibney doesn’t dance around the controversies in Fela's life, including his notorious womanizing and his obtuse justifications for his polygamy. The documentary brings to light his fiercely held beliefs and unwavering commitment to societal change, both of which accounted for the deep admiration that he commanded from his fans, both during his life and after his death.

Finding Fela is a deep and in-depth exploration of a man who used his talented musical expression to fight oppression and corruption. It is a celebration of a musical genius, who used his platform to inspire people around the world. The film serves as a comprehensive biography as well as a provocative foray into the complexity of art and activism. It’s an homage to a man who became the voice of his people through his music, leaving a strong and enduring legacy that continues to inspire artists today.

In conclusion, Finding Fela is a sober, thought-provoking yet entertaining portrayal of one of Africa's most influential musicians, offering viewers a chance to discover, or rediscover, the multi-faceted gifts of this passionate artist and social activist. From his music to his political activism, Finding Fela tells the story of a man who was larger-than-life and whose influence resonates even after his death. Whether you're familiar with Fela Kuti's music or are being introduced to him for the first time, this documentary offers a compelling look into his extraordinary life.