As for the DVD? It’s released by Alliance Atlantis and has no special features whatsoever — not even a trailer. While keeping in step with Allen’s own preferences for his own films’ DVDs, Kopple should have broken ranks, for even if the film itself is not that interesting, a good audio commentary on the making of the film, and about conversations and incidents left out (did Allen have ‘final cut’?) would go a long way to affording me the ability to recommend this DVD (but not the film). Alas, its lack dooms me to deny even that slim approbation.
At best, Wild Man Blues is a competent little film, a travelogue with a celebrity, but not one which will leave a lasting impression to the uninterested observer, even if it does occasionally appeal to the architecture lover out there. There are no great techniques nor style explored the way an Errol Morris or Ken Burns documentary is manifestly theirs. Thus, this film is recommended only for Allen fans who desire to have the man’s whole oeuvre — as director, writer, actor, or what not. And, yes, I am one of those people. But, for the rest of you, go watch Another Woman or Stardust Memories. Trust me on that!
Article comments
1 - John
What a pathetic review. The focus was on his tour, not his professional career. It was not about rehabilitating anything - it simply showed him as he was during the tour. The band plays "crude" jazz they way it was played in New Orleans. The musicians are great and do play elsewhere. It's a shame that your review suggests the documentary was made for any purpose other than to give some background on the tour.
2 - Dan Schneider
'Documentaries are supposed to enlighten and give insight into their subject matter'
Assume your point is correct: 'to give some background on the tour.'
There was none, and where were the in depth interviews w other band members?
If this had been the Joe Schlabotnick Dixieland Revue, Kopple would not have been there.
So, your claim is invalid.