Nick Drake - Under Review

Nick Drake - Under Review is a profound, heartrending documentary examining the life and work of the enigmatic British musician, Nick Drake. Directed by Bob Carruthers, this movie provides a comprehensive insight into the intricate fusion of life, music, and identity, woven together charmingly to present a holistic image of the late artist from his promising beginnings to his tragic end.

The film, despite being in a documentary format, institutes a dramatic narrative that drives the viewer to explore the complex sphere of this artist's existence, reclining on a blend of archived clips, interviews, and a complete review of his work. The protagonist, Nick Drake, is portrayed in all his genuineness, without unnecessary fanfare or over-the-top theatrics, encapsulating brief moments of his life in a fascinating and captivating manner.

Driving home an atmosphere of sincere nostalgia, the film centers its focus on revealing information about Drake unknown to wider audiences, especially those new to his music. Emerging as an original talent in the late 1960s, Drake secured himself a reputation until his premature death at the tender age of 26. His contributions to the music industry, though not globally recognized during his lifetime, have influenced countless musicians and listeners in later years.

Boasting a genuine connection with its viewers, the film steps further to reveal the life of its protagonist, exploring Drake’s childhood in the English countryside, his years at Marlborough College and Cambridge University, through to his brief career as a professional musician. Particular emphasis is placed on how these experiences and environments helped shape his enigmatic songs, stamping their mark on his profoundly emotional melodies.

A substantial portion of the film is dedicated to discussing Drake’s musical journey, highlighting his three studio albums – Five Leaves Left (1969), Bryter Later (1970), and Pink Moon (1972). The movie features notable industry experts, music critics, and fellow musicians who meticulously dissect and analyze his songs, providing viewers with their considered opinions on his musical progression, stylistic nuances, and his unique and enigmatic songwriting abilities.

Nick Drake - Under Review combines archive material, live performances and interviews with many of those who knew or had a connection with Drake, including celebrated producer Joe Boyd, collaborator and arranger Robert Kirby, friends Brian Wells, Geoff Jukes, and Beverley Martyn, as well as renowned American singer-songwriter John Martyn. Their testimonials explore seemingly inscrutable lyrics of Drake, providing enlightening arrays of interpretation that respect the artistic subjectivity of the artist while attempting to decode his genius.

The film goes above and beyond the standard documentary practice, inducting aspects of Drake’s influences, the intricate details of his music technique, unseen footages, rare interviews, and performances. The depth of analysis is amplified with experts, including esteemed musicologists who lay bare the secrets of his complex song arrangements. All these materials juxtapose beautifully to deliver a woven tapestry of Drake’s life and music, highlighting the lyrical and melodious genius that greatly contribute to his iconic status as a cult figure in the folk world.

Available are also several special features including ‘The Music of Nick Drake’, ‘The Ultimate Review’, ‘Drake’s Influence’, and ‘Drake’s Relevance’, providing continuing tributes to the musician's influential legacy. These features exhibit in-depth analyses of his albums, assessing their production, their literary and poetic significance, and their impact on future music artists. The film's completeness as a biography and review of an icon is testified through these features as they further portray Drake's artistic evolution and his enduring influence.

Moreover, the documentary’s narrative pacing is honest and measured, avoiding the temptation to sensationalize Drake's struggles. Instead, it adopts an empathetic approach, careful filming, and delicate editing. The result is a portrayal that humanizes the late artist, reminding viewers that behind his profound music was a young man grappling with insecurities, changes, and paranormal fears.

Nick Drake - Under Review, thus, isn't just a poignant exploration of Nick Drake's music and the tragedy that befalls a talented life cut short; it is a testament to the artist's towering legacy, with a sense of genuineness and respect permeating every moment of its run time. It orchestrates a beautiful harmony between all its visual, auditory, and textual elements, making it an unforgettable viewing experience not just for Nick Drake fans, but for everyone who appreciates how talent, passion, life, and art can mingle to create a timeless masterpiece.