Prince: Sign 'o' the Times

A glittering showcase of Prince's undeniable talent, the 1987 film, Prince: Sign 'o' the Times, combines concert footage with striking cinematic visuals. Directed by Prince himself, this music-filled spectacle showcases an array of beloved tracks, pulling from his critically-acclaimed album, Sign 'O' the Times.

The film kicks off with an explosion of sound and colour, the stage sizzling with Prince's signature brand of high-energy funk, rock, and soul. It is more than a concert film, however. Interwoven with the concert footage, are theatrical interludes, poetic segments, brilliant choreography, and delightful surprises that give the film its unique edge.

Prince, being the ultimate showman, brings a level of passion and intensity to the performance that's literally unmatched. From powerful guitar riffs to his raw, mesmerising vocals, it's clear that this is a maestro at work. Moreover, the film keenly highlights his abilities as a band leader; he seamlessly corals the band through every twist and turn of their extensive live set, each of which is given electrifying treatment.

The film also spotlights a bevy of talented artists accompanying Prince. Renowned drummer, Sheila E., brings forth her percussion prowess, delighting audiences with her high-intensity drum-sequences and captivating stage presence. Additionally, Sheena Easton - the Scottish singer and collaborative partner of Prince - makes a memorable appearance, adding yet another layer of charm to the performance.

Prince: Sign 'o' the Times is a visual treat too, with remarkable light effects and innovative stage designs that provide a feast for the eyes. Creative director, Roy Bennett, excavates his bag of visual tricks to synchronise cinematic styles with the power of the sound. The shots of Prince are intercut with different types of filmmaking, including the use of montage, close-ups, and a monologue delivered straight to camera, lending the film an artistic, avant-garde touch.

Another pleasing aspect of the film is its well-prescribed balance between the concert and the narrative. Although the concert takes up most of the film, it doesn't dwarf the narrative pieces, which serve as intriguing segues between performances. They provide a metaphoric echo to Prince's lyrics and prove that Prince was always looking for innovative ways to set his work apart.

The film embodies the spirit of the original Sign 'O' the Times double-album, incorporating themes of political and social change, trying to navigate love and life, alongside the energetic dance numbers and romantic ballads. The film includes some of Prince's best renditions of his songs, including the iconic title track, "Sign 'O' the Times," and hits like "If I Was Your Girlfriend," and "U Got the Look."

Overall, Prince: Sign 'o' the Times is not only a stellar performance film but also an inventive spectacle that firmly enshrines Prince's genius. It's a tantalising whirl of his flair and profound energy, capturing the artist in his prime.

As a Prince fan, you gain a renewed appreciation for his talent and his quest for individuality, and if you’re a newcomer, you’ll find Prince: Sign 'o' the Times a captivating and charismatic introduction to the landscape of his musical genius. It's a must-see for anyone interested in understanding why Prince was, and still is, considered a colossal figure in the history of contemporary music.