ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads

ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads is a fascinating 2019 documentary film that seeks to unveil the mysterious life and legend of the notorious blues icon, Robert Johnson. The film features interviews and anecdotes from academics, blues enthusiasts, and music legends including Terry Harmonica Bean, Rory Block, and Yvonne Chireau. The in-depth narrative takes viewers on an exploration of Johnson's life, his influence on music, and the mystique surrounding his supposed pact with the devil.

The documentary is part of a Netflix series, ReMastered, each episode of which takes an in-depth look at a high-profile event affecting a legendary figure in music history. This particular installment, directed by Brian Oakes, draws audiences into the story of Robert Johnson who lived in Mississippi in the early 20th century and whose influence on blues and rock 'n' roll cannot be overstated.

The film commences with a glance at Johnson's roots, looking into his birth in Hazlehurt, Mississippi in 1911, his upbringing in a racially segregated society, and his transformation into a traveling bluesman. It proceeds to examine the state of race relations in the American South in the early 20th century, setting a vital context for the narrative of Johnson's life.

Beyond being merely a biographical film, Devil at the Crossroads explores the enigmatic question that has puzzled music historians for decades: Did Robert Johnson really sell his soul to the devil at a Mississippi crossroads to gain unrivaled musical skills? The intriguing blend of history, folklore, and blues' spiritual elements in the documentary puts this very question under scrutiny. Utilizing archival footage, interviews, and stylized animated sequences, the film weaves together facts and legends, creating a rich tapestry of a remarkable, yet scarcely documented life.

In addition to exploring Johnson's story, director Brian Oakes also underscores his musical legacy. Featuring interviews with music legends like Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, and Robert Cray, Devil at the Crossroads delves into how Johnson's innovative guitar playing and soulful lyrics influenced generations of musicians. These interviews don't merely glorify Johnson's genius, instead, they offer nuanced observations on his technique and the depth of his lyricism. This approach gives credibility to the film and engages viewers who might be unfamiliar with Johnson's work.

One of the film's standout components is its visually stunning animated sequences. These scenes, designed by Patrick Smith, bring life to Johnson's story, significantly contributing to the narrative where historical evidence lacks. They offer a creative way to fill in the considerable gaps in Johnson's story, enabling viewers to fully appreciate his extraordinary journey.

Terry Harmonica Bean, blues' harmonica legend, is prominently featured as one of the contributors to the documentary. His stories and insights guide the audience through Johnson's narrative, emphasizing the blues' significance in the American musical landscape. Yvonne Chireau, a scholar focusing on African-American religion, further aids the audience's understanding by exploring the correlations between blues, spirituality, and the myths surrounding Johnson's narrative. Lastly, Rory Block, the Blues Music Award-winning artist, deepens the viewers' appreciation of Johnson's music through her impassioned renditions of his songs and punctuated reflections on his musicianship.

Arguably the documentary's most significant achievement is humanizing Robert Johnson. Often shrouded in mythology, Johnson is portrayed as a man, passionate about his craft, influenced by his surroundings, and transformed into an icon through his musical genius. In stripping away some of his myths, Devil at the Crossroads presents Johnson as a complex figure, a man caught between his time's harsh realities, and a legend who resonates through the ages because of his extraordinary talent.

ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads is a skillfully crafted film that strikes an excellent balance between the myth and reality of Robert Johnson's life. Engrossing and highly informative, it offers a riveting exploration of his musical prowess and a wider examination of the early 20th century Mississippi Delta within which his legend was born. This documentary, steeped in music history, folklore, and poignant human story, is a must-watch for those interested in blues, rock 'n' roll, and the complex tapestry of American music history.