Audience Member
I thought this was a terrific documentary, with lots of insights into how life is for a band that has almost, but not quite, made it. It covers the whole process, from songwriting, to recording, life in the van, and the live shows. Lydia herself is quite a character and speaks intelligently about such issues as payment for artists in the age of streaming, the significance of album artwork, the annoyingness of fans videoing shows, sometimes right in the face of the artist – on all these issues, I agreed with her 100%. Her band members are all personable and smart too, although arguments and discord are pretty much absent, which is a little hard to believe. The film also contains some unexpected pathos, when the dog of Ben Lamb, the bass player and Lydia's husband, has to be put down; it had never really occurred to me that life on the road means being separated from your beloved pets and feeling guilty when they fall sick while you are away. My only criticisms would be the superpowers animation segment, which didn't work for me, and the omission of "How Many Women?" The latter is Lydia's most well-known song by far, with 10 times more Spotify plays than her second most popular song, and is also a favourite of mine so it was a bit disappointing it was not included. Those quibbles apart, I think anyone with an interest in how music is made and how life is for musicians these days should really enjoy this well-made movie.
Rated 4.5/5 Stars •
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
01/31/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Who is Lydia Loveless? is unlike any rock film I've ever seen. Instead of the usual gushing about a band long gone, this film takes us on a journey with a band in progress. We see the highs and lows, the financial struggles, the boredom of the road, issues with piracy, rude fans, and of course sexism. Lydia is funny and brilliant.
When the filmmaker, Gorman Bechard, takes apart her song "Desire," bringing us from words in a note book, to rehearsal, to studio, to live performance. we see Lydia's genius at work. And speaking of live performances, the few featured here are among the greatest I've ever seen anywhere. I'm talk "Stop Making Sense" greatness.
This is a film that should appeal to not just Lydia fans, or even rock documentary fans, but to fans of great narrative filmmaking. This is a great indie film. Period. One of the best I've seen all year. You will laugh, you will learn, you will even shed a tear, but most importantly it will rock your world.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/15/23
Full Review
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