FILM REVIEW: "THE SPARKS BROTHERS" BURNS WITH PASSION
The largest flames begin with a single spark, and the aptly named Sparks, were that leaping flame. Commercially insignificant but culturally enormous, Sparks helped pave the way for a catalogue of Earths mightiest bands, and yet they receive no thanks.
Who are Sparks? Sparks are an American pop/rock duo consisting of brothers Ron and Russell Mael, who began creating their own unique style of music in the late 60’s, and continue to evolve as a band all the way through to this year! Their catalogue of over 300 songs holds nary a #1 hit, but is riddled with forgotten gems that inspired leagues of bands thereafter.
So who is this madman raving about this unheard band? None other than Edgar Wright, the wickedly creative writer and director behind Baby Driver, Shaun of the Dead, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and much more. Wright lovingly invites audiences into the odyssey of Sparks, blending his own signature creative energy with that of Earths wackiest band, producing an incredibly entertaining music documentary, half a century in the making.
Told through talking heads, archival footage and several animations, The Sparks Brothers explores the endless trial of creativity, the desire to be true to yourself, and the unwritten legacy of one of music’s most imperative bands.
Inspiring the likes of The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, E.L.O, The Smiths, Joy Division, Sex Pistols, Nirvana, Paul McCartney and countless others, it’s understandable why Wright brought the Brothers legacy to the big screen. (And a SHAME that we, as a collective, have been oblivious to Sparks)
The Brothers document their rises, falls and future challenges (including their upcoming arthouse film Annette starring Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard, which recently released to rave reviews), all told with a blend of humour, love, and Wright's signature style; which elevate the film above standard music documentaries.
The Sparks Brothers is an ode to creativity in it’s finest form, a never-ending saga of trial and tribulations at the behest of the ever-changing musical landscape. Wright conjures up the ultimate fan film, and though it’s runtime may cater to Sparks fanatics (Wrights longest film to date!), it lovingly welcomes new fans to revel in the mania of one of the greatest unheard bands (who are still making music).
More than anything, the documentary got me listening to Sparks… that’s all a music documentary could ever ask for.
4 / 5 stars
If Sparks sound like your cup of tea, yet the 300+ song list sounds daunting, I personally recommend the following songs for starters: This Town Ain’t Big Enough For The Both of Us, When I’m With You, Mustache, Angst In My Pants.. from there commence your journey into the unknown!
