Watch Tom Waits: Under Review

Tom Waits: Under Review is a documentary that attempts to provide an in-depth look into the life and career of musical icon Tom Waits. The movie presents a comprehensive analysis of Waits' musical journey, as seen through the eyes of various musicians, critics, and experts who have both worked with him and admired him. The documentary is presented in a chronological order and covers the period from Waits’ early days in the 1970s to the present. As such, viewers get a comprehensive portrayal of the artist's evolution from a polished smooth singer to a gravelly-voiced, bluesy performer.

The movie provides an array of insightful commentary from musicians who worked with Tom Waits. It is challenging to overstate his influence on the music scene, and this documentary does a great job of highlighting just how influential Tom Waits is to the music world. Some of the artist's closest collaborators, including guitarist Marc Ribot, drummer Matt Chamberlain, and pianist Dan Hicks, share insightful perspectives on the many twists and turns of Tom Waits' creative process.

As a viewer, one is presented with the artist as an enigma. Waits' life is presented as an enigmatic puzzle, and the documentary tries to piece together the story systematically through interviews, music, and archival material. The film also delves into the unique theatrical aspect of Waits' music, which often incorporates sound pieces, props, and costumes along with his trademark growling delivery style.

Another critical theme that the documentary examines is Waits' influence on other musicians. It highlights the ways in which Waits has inspired other artists to explore new creative territory and venture beyond the traditional realm of music. While he may not be a household name, one can pick out the fingerprints of his influence all over contemporary music. The documentary makes you realize that Waits is not only a genius artist but a true muso's musician.

The film also serves as a platform for critics and musical experts to comment on the unique nature of Waits' music. His work is characterized as both grimy and sympathetic, emotional and detached, and his voice is compared to that of a carnival barker, an old blues artist, and even a foghorn. From his early years as a whiskey-voiced balladeer to his current more experimental phase, Waits’ vocal delivery and ever-changing songwriting style are awe-inspiring.

But where the movie really shines is in the exclusive footage that is interspersed amidst the interviews. The documentary provides rare glimpses of Waits interacting with his bandmates and recording music. These clips plunge you into the artistic process and unveil the man behind the music.

Ultimately, Tom Waits: Under Review is more than just a documentary about an individual musician. It is an exploration of the essence of music itself, taking us beyond the realms of just the biography of the musician. It is an ode to art, an insight into the creative process, and an enlightening expose that seeks to elicit the viewers’ perspective on what makes music so significant to each of us.

In conclusion, Tom Waits: Under Review is a carefully crafted documentary, skillfully lensed and paired with exceptional editing. It will resonate with those who have an affinity for music, arts, and creativity of all forms. An eminently accomplished documentary about an enigmatic artist, this is one movie that is not to be missed.