Change Your Image
julesquimby
Reviews
Bitchin': The Sound and Fury of Rick James (2021)
Well made and brutally honest doc
This was a well put together documentary of a talented yet flawed human being, and the recorded audio from the Punk-Funkster himself was truly an ear-opener. I'm glad they were very honest with Rick's unfortunate sexually deviant actions due to heavy drug use, and possible childhood trauma--and he PAID FOR HIS CRIMES, unlike countless celebrated so-called rock icons of yesteryear whose also deviant actions have been white-washed and excused. As a longtime funk music fan, I did however, wish they had touched on his "Fire It Up/"Garden Of Love" period, which was part of the blueprint that birthed the iconic "Street Songs". Furthermore, I'm glad this is available for those who may only know him from "Superfreak", and a certain catch-phrase that in my opinion, turned him into somewhat of a caricature. I already see some "squares"belittling his musical contributions, and incorrectly posting here about his crimes; it's obvious they didn't watch this. Clearly, seeing their previous posts and critiques speak volumes, and I'll leave it that.
Put the Camera on Me (2003)
Very Entertaining
I was so entertained throughout this insightful documentary, and I waited a good while for this to come through the pipes (my local video chain), and it was worth the wait. I like a good documentary / special interest piece, but this was definitely a heartfelt, honest, and nostalgic, if you will, look back on adolescent life. The imagination of a child is fascinating, and that's where a great story begins. Rent it or buy it if you like a good, humorous, and all around entertaining documentary. Mr. Stein and company have definitely come a long way from neighborhood Video CamCorder productions of bank hold-ups, and gay-rings that turn people gay from one glance. They all seem rather successful in they're respectful fields, and it was good to know that they are all still good friends. The DVD has a few extra trailers for other good documentaries, and it features a number of Darren's most notable productions, including, Crazy News.