The Zen Of Bennett

The Zen of Bennett is a 2012 documentary that offers a heartwarming peek into the life and work habits of the legendary crooner, Tony Bennett. Directed by Unjoo Moon, this autobiographical film encapsulates Bennett's music, artistic approach, life philosophy, and inspiring work ethic, told through candid conversations, behind-the-scenes footage, and intimate looks at the recording of his recent album at the time, "Duets II".

The film's title, "The Zen of Bennett", emerges as an embodiment of the singer's tranquillity, wisdom, mindfulness, and thoughtful perspective on life, which he has acquired throughout his career spanning more than six decades in the industry. Bennett's serene and insightful nature is truly remarkable considering his monumental success and the tumultuous life he has led.

At the age of 85 when the movie was shot, Bennett arguably possesses more vitality and engagement than many artists a quarter of his age. His longevity in the industry, his relevance, musical sophistication, and his sustained vocal prowess are portrayed in stark contrast to the short, tragic life of one of his costars, Amy Winehouse. Their rendition of “Body and Soul” stands as one of the final performances for Winehouse before her untimely death, and the documentary offers poignant context with subtle highlighting of the ephemeral sparkle of Winehouse's talent amidst Bennett's lasting legacy.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of The Zen of Bennett is watching the singer interact with a slew of younger pop stars such as Lady Gaga, John Mayer, and Michael Bublé who are featured in the "Duets II" album. Each collaboration presented in the documentary serves to underscore the timeless nature of Bennett's work and his ability to connect with artists across generations. It’s captivating to watch these youthful superstars humbly defer to Bennett's wisdom and experience, not just for his legendary status, but also because of his natural propensity to mentor and guide them.

Throughout the film, Bennett shares his worldly wisdoms on life, love, and success, and his philosophies reveal a genuine wisdom that transcends his profession. His views on life are deeply entwined with his craft — art, in its many forms, plays an integral role in Bennett's life, from his music to his painting. The film consistently portrays him as an earnest and genuine artist who has spent his life in pursuit of creating something beautiful.

Using Bennett's paintings as a leitmotif for the film, Moon expertly weaves the narrative threads of his dual passions for music and art. Often seen painting serene landscapes amidst recording sessions, Bennett's visual artistry becomes a quiet metaphor for his approach to music — a practice marked by patience, precision, deep embodiment, and reverence for the moment.

With an elegant and polished aesthetic, The Zen of Bennett stylishly depicts the world through Bennett's eyes, coloured by nostalgia and deep appreciation for the Jazz and Big Band era that he's indelibly a part of. Presented entirely in black and white, the film not only harks back to a bygone time but also serves to beautifully capture the stark contrast of Bennett's enduring career against the ever-changing landscape of popular music.

Moreover, the documentary doesn't shy away from also showcasing Bennett's intense work ethic and the undercurrent of melancholy. One of the most touching parts of the movie is when it gently shines a light on Bennett's enduring love for his wife, Susan Benedetto. The film renders a beautiful portrait of their relationship, letting viewers in on their quiet moments that speak volumes about their love and respect for each other.

Simply put, The Zen of Bennett is a tribute to Tony Bennett's career, presenting an intimate portrait of the artist who has managed to maintain his authenticity, relevance, and credibility in an industry notorious for being fickle. The film allows the audience to appreciate Bennett not only as a consummate performer but also as a quietly insightful man who continues to find joy and fulfillment in his art after more than sixty years in the business. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration for many artists, teaching lessons on longevity, resilience, grace, and staying true to oneself in a constantly shifting industry.