Watch Finding Joseph I: The HR From Bad Brains Documentary

Finding Joseph I: The HR From Bad Brains Documentary is a 2017 biographical documentary film directed by James Lathos. The film is based on the life of Paul Hudson, known for his stage name H.R, the lead singer of the American punk rock band called Bad Brains. The movie provides an in-depth exploration of the musician's life, career, and contributions. The film features interviews from his bandmates, family, fellow musicians, and experts in the industry.

The documentary starts with the introduction of H.R's music career, taking the viewer back to the 1970s punk rock era in Washington D.C. He was the frontman of the band that pioneered and revolutionized a genre, making them legends in the punk rock world. Through the interviews with his fellow band members, including Darryl Jenifer, Earl Hudson, and Dr. Know, the film charts the connections among the Bad Brains team and the development of the band's unique sound.

Along with songs like "Riot Squad" and "Pay to Cum," H.R's contribution to Bad Brains was in his vocal style, which he had honed as a gospel singer in his youth. His distinct vocal range and frenzied stage performances were captivating, inspiring, and enthralling for those who saw the band play live.

The film also offers insights into the challenges that the band faced as black performers, trying to make their mark in a predominantly white world of punk rock. In addition to this, H.R himself faced several challenges, including alcohol and drug addiction, mental health conditions, and his struggle to come to terms with his identity. The documentary delves into these issues, offering viewers a glimpse into the complexities of his personality, and his passion for music and performance.

Throughout Finding Joseph I, the camera provides the audience with a behind-the-scenes look at H.R's home and family life, showcasing his love for his family and his desire to connect with people. We also see his interest in painting, which acts as an outlet and a source of comfort for him. The film acknowledges H.R's contributions to the music industry as a whole, with interviews from high-profile fans like Henry Rollins, Dave Grohl, and Ian MacKaye, who attest to his impact on their music.

The documentary also highlights H.R's unique style and fashion choices, which were a significant part of his identity as a performer. The camera provides a showcase of his distinct ways of dressing, highlighting his love for color, patterns, and textures.

Finally, the film aims to answer the central question - "Who is the real H.R?" Finding Joseph I explores and provides insight into the complexities of H.R's persona while maintaining a level of respect towards his privacy. It provides viewers with a deep understanding and insight into a musician who struggled with mental health and addiction while also being an icon in the punk rock world.

In summary, Finding Joseph I: The HR From Bad Brains Documentary is a well-constructed and thought-provoking biographical documentary film that provides an intimate look into the life and career of H.R, the lead singer of Bad Brains. The film offers a fascinating insight into the music legend, his struggles with identity, mental health, and drug addiction, and the impact he had on the music industry. It provides an essential historical record of a band and a singer that was unique, revolutionary, and captivating. The documentary is a must-watch for fans of Bad Brains and those interested in punk rock history.

Finding Joseph I: The HR From Bad Brains Documentary is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes.