Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band

Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band is a compelling documentary that abounds with heartfelt narration, incredible archival footage, and soulful music. Directed by Daniel Roher, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2019. In the thrilling world of rock documentaries, this film forges an impressive presence by exploring the fascinating journey of the Canadian musical group, The Band, and its chief songwriter, Robbie Robertson.

The film provides an intimate and nostalgic journey into the past, delving into the iconic history of one of the most influential groups in music history. Once Were Brothers not only captures the essence of The Band that shaped the musical wave of the 60s and 70s but also reflects on the relationships, hardships, and triumphs of this extraordinary group of musicians.

In the centre of it all is Robbie Robertson, the visionary songwriter and lead guitarist of The Band. The film is greatly influenced by his 2016 memoir, Testimony, and it often feels like a cine-confession, as much as it is a celebration of the Laurels Canyon music scene's halcyon days. Robbie is presented as a charismatic and eloquent narrator, sharing the highs and lows of his complex personal journey with raw honesty and emotion. However, the film doesn't ignore the subtle nuances of a group dynamic; it analyses the eventual fragmentation of the band but remains fairly diplomatic in its treatment of Robbie's fellow bandmates.

On the musical front, this documentary is genuinely remarkable. It provides an in-depth account of The Band's rise to fame, highlighting their contribution to the narrative structure of rock 'n' roll. It particularly emphasizes on peculiarities of their style, with its deep grounding in American roots music, and their substantial impact on artists such as Bob Dylan and The Beatles. Samuel Robertson’s home footage, Woodstock footage, and unseen photographs create an unadulterated portrayal of the era, helping the audience comprehend the band's ascent and their profound influence on the music industry.

The narrative isn’t confined to the members of The Band alone. The documentary introduces commentary from several notable musicians who convey the depth of The Band's impact on the music industry and the world. Interviews with personalities like Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, and Van Morrison, amongst others, paint a vivid image of the band's influence and transcendence, amidst the rapidly changing world of rock 'n' roll.

Once Were Brothers offers a wealth of emotional reflections on the tangled web of brotherhood, fame, addiction, and the cruel price of creativity. Robertson’s voice remains consistent throughout the film, sharpening the focus on his perspective, providing an intricate look on the life of the band. The filmmakers have perfectly captured the moments of triumph and creativity contrasted with tension, loss and ultimate dissolution.

While the movie narrates a major chunk of its story through Robertson's eyes, it does not downplay the substantial contribution of other band members. Each member, from the influential drummer Levon Helm to pianist Richard Manuel and bass player Rick Danko and multi-instrumentalist Garth Hudson, who animated the music with their distinguished proficiency and vocal ragas are acknowledged for their unique talents. The film considers the collective genius of this lineup, their fascinating collaborations, and the tragic ends for some of them.

Simultaneously, it offers an exploration of Robbie Robertson's growth as an artist. His transcendent guitar skills, sagacious lyrics and the metamorphosis from a young rock star into an effective guide for one of the most inventive and influential groups in rock music, are masterfully portrayed. This account of Robertson’s coming-of-age story, displayed against the backdrop of the waterloo of the 60s music scene and amid the then enigmatic rock icons, offers the audience a glimpse into the timeless aura of legends of the era.

The film also does not shy away from depicting the infighting, the alleged betrayals, and the decades-long feuds that, ironically, stand as the testimony to the deep connections among the band members, ultimately leading to their unfortunate split.

In conclusion, Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band plays out like an engaging sonic biography. It wraps up music, friendship, success and tragedy into a full-bodied narrative of a much-loved band that many are yet to discover. The heart-rending and passionate accounts interlaced with priceless footage and music, make this documentary more than just a trip down memory lane. It is a deep dive into how five men, bound by music, impacted a generation and created an enduring legacy.