The Inertia Variations

The Inertia Variations is an introspective documentary from 2017 that profiles legendary musician Matt Johnson, known as the lead vocalist of the British post-punk band, The The. Directed by Swedish filmmaker Johanna St Michaels, Johnson examines his self-imposed fifteen-year absence from the public eye. This biographical exploration includes exclusive interviews with Johnson, as well as significant contributions from his fellow lyricist and video director for The The, Tim Pope.

The narrative of The Inertia Variations takes its name from a poem by John Tottenham, that gives profound expression to the inertia of individuals, often too comfortable or paralyzed to change their lifestyles. This theme is distinctly portrayed as Johnson candidly addresses his creative block, and the struggle he endures in making peace with his past and finding a way forward.

The movie is set against the backdrop of London, where Johnson has converted an old factory into his personal home studio and radio broadcast station, 'Radio Cineola'. The documentary contrasts sequences of vivid cityscape imagery with intimate close-ups of Johnson within this self-created seclusion – offering a peek into his daily routines, poignant nostalgia, and attempts to revive his musical creativity.

Memories of previous successes and failures, remains of his prolific past, are sprinkled throughout the documentary, in an elegiac exploration of the artist’s career. These include the highs of sold-out shows, hits like "This Is The Day" and "Uncertain Smile", as well as the lows – notably, Johnson's decision to cease making music under The The around the turn of the millennium due to a disenchantment with the music industry.

To broaden the perspective, director St Michaels includes a variety of contributions from individuals involved in Johnson's personal and professional journey, such as former bandmembers and creative partners. Tim Pope, a long-time collaborator and regular The The music video director, provides rich commentary on his friendship with Johnson and their journey together. These interviews not only add layers to Johnson's character but also emphasize the extent of his influence in the music world and beyond.

In parallel with Johnson's quest to overcome his inertia and return to creative productivity, the documentary presents an equally compelling plot – Johnson's 'Midday to Midnight Marathon'. This is a 12-hour live radio broadcast in which the musician himself becomes the DJ, sharing political and social commentary, playing music, and interviewing a variety of interesting guests. This venture provides an intriguing journey into Johnson's thoughts and perspectives on varying issues, also serving as a unique stage where he battles his inertia in real-time.

The soundtrack of The Inertia Variations, composed of original songs and compositions of Johnson himself, is also a remarkable feature of this documentary. It adds an absorbing layer of depth to the viewing experience, blending with Johnson's powerful narration, while subtly echoing his confrontation with complacency and struggle to revive his creative self.

St Michaels does an exceptional job in unraveling Johnson's personal journey with honesty and sincerity. She presents Johnson's introspective exploration without filters, offering viewers a raw look into his vulnerabilities - the guilt, pressure, and expectations that accompany fame and the subsequent withdrawal from it.

This movie is not just a pure biography of a famed musician but also an exploration of existential themes that lie at the heart of human experience. It presents an insightful exploration of creativity, inertia, resurgence, and the pursuit of personal and artistic integrity within the turbulent world of fame and music.

Overall, The Inertia Variations is a profoundly resonating documentary for fans of The The, lovers of music, and anyone who has grappled with a creative block or inertia in their life. It provides a captivating insight into an iconic artist's life, exploring universal themes that will remain ingrained in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.