Stoned

Stoned is a 2005 British biographical drama film directed by Stephen Woolley, marking his directorial debut. It extensively depicts the dramatic and tumultuous life of Brian Jones, the founder and original leader of The Rolling Stones and elucidates his contribution to their initial success. The movie stars Leo Gregory as Brian Jones, Paddy Considine as Frank Thorogood, and David Morrissey as Tom Keylock.

The narrative begins with an electrifying depiction of the rock'n'roll scene of the 1960s, presenting us with a vibrant protagonist - Brian Jones. The character of Jones is intricately portrayed by Leo Gregory, whose performance captures the charisma, eccentricity, enigmatic personality and wild creativity of the real-life musical genius. Jones is shown as a trend settler and a cultural idol of the 1960s', a symbol of revolution against the cultural orthodoxies of the time.

The movie also focuses heavily on the toxic love-triangle involving Brian Jones, his girlfriend Anita Pallenberg (portrayed by Monet Mazur) and Keith Richards (Ben Whishaw). This romantic complication doesn’t fail to add an extra layer of tension and intrigue to the complex tale.

Paddy Considine portrays the character of Frank Thorogood, a builder and a handyman, who was last seen with Brian Jones before his suspicious drowning. Frank Thorogood's character is depicted as being caught in a world far beyond his comprehension, which results in a complex and intriguing dynamic with Brian Jones. David Morrissey plays Tom Keylock, Jones' chauffeur and minder, a role with shades of sinister undercurrents lurking beneath the surface.

Stoned sets itself apart through its deft combination of the glamour and danger of the rock'n'roll lifestyle, offset against a background of mystery and conspiracy. The storyline often shifts between the past and present, moving back and forth in time frames like an intricate patchwork, creating a broader perspective of the complex life of Brian Jones.

The cultural and social revolution of the 1960s forms the backdrop against which we see Brian Jones, not just as a pioneer of rock ‘n’ roll music, but also as a profoundly flawed individual who faced trials and tribulations both personally and professionally. His fascination with the blues and his eclectic musical tastes changed the musical sphere of the sixties and had a profound influence on the evolution of rock music. His tragic descent, haunted by drug abuse and legal troubles, contrasts sharply with the success of the band he helped create.

David Morrissey and Paddy Considine's performances as the ‘everyman’ figures, ensnared in the world of rock'n'roll excess and celebrity, provide an engaging counterpoint to Gregory's portrayal of Jones. Notable also are the appearances from Tuva Novotny as Anna Wohlin (Jones' last lover) and Amelia Warner as Janet Lawson, a nurse who was reportedly present on the night of Jones' death.

Stoned primes itself as a movie that extends beyond the confines of a standard biopic, tapping into elements of mystery, drama, and psychological exploration. The cinematography is remarkable, especially the scenes shot inside the decadent, bohemian world of Jones' luxurious Sussex mansion.

One cannot forget to mention the soundtrack, which includes tracks from the Rolling Stones and a slew of 1960's rock and blues classics that further elevate the movie's gritty and edgy atmosphere. However, the movie doesn’t just rely on its musical pedigree but carves its niche through meticulous character sketches, an engaging narrative and a striking representation of the cultural revolution of the glorious sixties.

Stoned, while portraying the life story of a musical icon, also becomes an exploration of an era defined by its music, fashion, cultural and social revolutions. An era where the shimmering glamour of the rock star life often concealed darker realities lurking underneath. With brilliant performances, an enthralling narrative, and a richly evocative landscape, Stoned strives to pay homage to the enigmatic, tragic figure of Brian Jones and the indelible legacy he left behind. The movie effectively encapsulates the premise that 'it’s not only the music that makes the man, but also the man that makes the music'.