Paul Simon - Graceland

Paul Simon - Graceland (Classic Album) is an engaging and eye-opening feature film that delves into the making of one of the most influential albums of the late 20th century, "Graceland", by the revered American musician Paul Simon. The film offers an insider's look into the creation of Simon's iconic 1986 release, an album that was acclaimed not just for its complex fusion of American and South African musical styles, but also for shedding international light on the struggles faced by people in apartheid-era South Africa.

The movie's core narrative is anchored by a chronological breakdown of the sequencing of the original "Graceland" album, which moves progressively from the opening of the title track all the way to the closing notes. This thread of analysis allows viewers to better appreciate the intricacies of the music, the nuanced lyrics, and the regional influences that seamlessly translated into a singular, genre-defining sound.

Paul Simon, the man himself, features extensively throughout the film, offering his candid thoughts, personal experiences, and the inspirational stories behind the making of this ground-breaking album. Simon takes viewers on an intimate, introspective journey, providing an in-depth commentary on the album's most recognized tracks, as well as offering insight into the less well-known, but equally significant, songs that make up the rest of the album.

The film also features a host of musicians and collaborators who were instrumental in the creation of "Graceland". Getting different perspectives from these legendary artists such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, The Everly Brothers, and Los Lobos adds a rich layer of depth to the narrative. These interviews provide previously unheard anecdotes about the songwriting and recording process, and deepen the understanding of the influences and inspirations that Simon drew from in crafting "Graceland".

Where the film truly excels is in documenting the cultural and political context in which the album was made. The film doesn't shy away from discussing the controversy surrounding Simon's travels to South Africa during the apartheid era, a time when the UN's cultural boycott was in full effect. It explores how the album became a lightning rod for criticism, due to the perceived violation of this boycott, despite its intention and impact of highlighting the talent and struggles of South African musicians.

"Graceland" was an album that relied heavily on South Africa's vibrant mbaqanga music, and the movie shines a spotlight on this, creating an audiovisual journey into the heart of this beautiful yet underrepresented genre. This is accompanied by an exploration of the political nuances and the social issues prevalent at the time, giving viewers a comprehensive view of the backbone upon which the album was built.

The film also features clips of unforgettable live performances, including Simon's Graceland concert in Zimbabwe, which attracted an audience from across Africa. Beyond that, it offers a glimpse into Simon's artistic process, his relationship with the cast of unique musicians, and the resulting collaborations that produced many of the album's unique stylistic elements.

"Paul Simon - Graceland (Classic Album)" is a fascinating exploration that unearths the depth and complexity behind one of the most revered albums in pop history. The film's combination of interviews, musical analysis, and historical context results in an insightful and rewarding experience for fans of Simon, fans of "Graceland", and even viewers newly discovering this musical milestone.

With its wealth of rarely seen footage, first-person accounts, and extensive exploration of the album's sociopolitical context, this film illuminates the depth of "Graceland" and reaffirms its enduring legacy. It's a must-watch for music lovers and those interested in the intersection of art and social change. Whether you're a longtime fan of Paul Simon or a curious viewer looking to understand more about the creation of beloved works of art, "Paul Simon - Graceland (Classic Album)" is an enriching and enlightening viewing experience.