Sympathy for the Devil

Sympathy for the Devil, also known as "1 + 1" among film and art enthusiasts, is a 1968 avant-garde film. This bold and innovative film is a docu-drama reflecting the counter-cultural climate of the late '60s by intertwining two parallel narratives. The film boasts compelling performances from its cast, including Sean Lynch, Mick Jagger, and Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones fame.

Directed by the revolutionary Jean-Luc Godard, the film unquestionably caters to his penchant for breaking the fourth wall, creating an innovative cinematic narrative that integrates elements of documentary, drama, and music. Renowned cinematographer, Anthony B. Richmond, is the man behind the splendid visuals that add to the film's unique character. The fusion of Godard's trailblazing direction and Richmond's cinematic brilliance creates a distinct vision that aligns with the ongoing cultural shift of the '60s.

The film primarily focuses on the creation of one of The Rolling Stones' most iconic songs, "Sympathy for the Devil". Juxtaposing the evolution of this classic song are scenes reflecting social and political unrest, trying to mirror the tumultuous times. While Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, and the rest of the iconic band work to bring their music to life in the studio, the audience witnesses a series of vignettes that highlight the turmoil of an era, creatively combining elements of truth, fiction, and socio-political commentary.

Sean Lynch, also known for his performance in the '70s British crime series "The Sweeney", portrays multiple characters in these vignettes, further amplifying the surreal narrative style of the film. He satirically plays a Nazi propagandist and a political prisoner mirroring the polar opposites of the political spectrum, in a series of scenes that satirize real-life events and political ideologies. This groundbreaking narrative puzzle, intermingling with The Rolling Stones' creative process, makes for an intriguing viewing experience.

Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, and other band members, including Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts, deliver captivating performances. Jagger, the magnetic frontman of the Rolling Stones, brings authenticity to the portrayal of a music artist caught in the soul-searching and creative process. Brian Jones, the multi-instrumentalist, known for his significant contribution to the Stones' sound, also offers a mesmerizing glimpse into their behind-the-scenes world.

The dialogue within the film, whether it stems from the music process or from the socio-political scenes, often delves into the realm of poetry and philosophical musings. This blending of fact, fictionalized dramatic sequences, interviews, and improvisational dialogues gives the film a radical narrative, representative of Godard's unconventional filmmaking style.

The original music by The Rolling Stones serves as a strong backbone to the narrative. The film not only offers a rare look at the evolution of their song "Sympathy for the Devil", but also draws audiences into the world of The Rolling Stones' songwriting process. The pulsating rhythms juxtaposed with the audacious narrative make this film a treat for both music and movie enthusiasts fascinated by 1960s pop-culture.

Beautifully shot in color and black-and-white by Anthony B. Richmond, this experimental docu-drama analyzes the zeitgeist of the late '60s, exploring the interconnection of music, politics, media, and race. The innovative film goes beyond the conventional realms of cinema, making it not just a movie but an art piece capturing the essence of a specific era.

In essence, Sympathy for the Devil is less of a linear story and more of a sensory and intellectual experience. The film successfully offers a multi-layered portrayal of creative and societal struggles of the late '60s, using the creation of a song by one of the era's most influential bands as the central motif. It's an intriguing form of expression; a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the history of cinema, music, 1960s history, or the boundary-pushing works of Jean-Luc Godard.