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The Dandy Warhols and The Brian Jonestown Massacre
Publisher: Madman Films
Wed, 21 December 2005
by: Madame Hooplah
Dig documents the careers and relationship between these bands over a seven-year period. Courtney Taylor and Anton Newcombe, (singer/writer of The Dandys and egomaniac/"genius" of Jonestown respectively) initially had a close relationship. Over the course of the doco they antagonise each other and grow apart. It's not totally clear how much of this is malicious but it seems to begin with The Dandy Warhols' single "not if you were the last junkie on earth". Whether justified or not, Anton, a heroin user, takes it personally and retaliates with a song called "not if you were the last dandy on earth". From thereon Anton tries to set up a Blur/Oasis type of rivalry for the media and things get strange.
Courtney Taylor, who seems to have dropped half of his surname in the credits, narrates the film. Or perhaps he gained an extra Taylor after the doco was shot- maybe someone can let me know? Since the release of the movie he has voiced his disapproval of the way the friendship was portrayed.
This is an extremely entertaining movie. It really delivers where Metallicas' "Monster" failed to. Anton is a train wreck that you can't help watching. Courtney even refers to him as a "brilliant monster creator of art". Anton genuinely sees himself some sort of prophet or mystic. He thinks he is channelling the music and his message is all about love. He does concede that it might get lost in translation when he's seen smacking people in the head though.
Both bands strive to maintain their creative integrity and control of their careers. Courtney tells the record company "I sneeze and hits come out". Anton is incapable of representing his band so the task falls to Joel Prion- tambourine/maracas artist, spokesman and annoying wanker. Joel seems to be a key member of The Brian Jonestown Massacre, though it has more to do with image than musical input.
The Dandy Warhols seem to be a cohesive, productive and likeable band. They make a good contrast to The Brian Jonestown Massacre who are dysfunctional and abusive. A prolific creator, Anton produces plenty of albums and excites plenty of interest but fails to maintain a successful career. Live performances invariably lead to fighting amongst band members and/or audience members, usually incited by Anton. Band members are constantly storming off after successive drug and alcohol fuelled disagreements.
Special features include:
Interview with Matt Hollywood (ex Jonestown) and Brent De Boer (drummer, Warhols).
Jam Session with Courtney and Anton.
Bonus scenes (including many irritating Joel moments)
Theatrical Trailer
Unedited Dandy Warhols video clips
It's a pity the music of The Brian Jonestown Massacre isn't showcased here very well. There is more footage of people raving about it than there is of the band actually performing it. Certainly Anton would have been shown in a more sympathetic light if evidence of his musical genius were more apparent.
This is worth not just one but many viewings- a classic.
by: Madame Hooplah
More articles by Madame Hooplah
Best Quote: "Broke my f*&ken Sitar motherf%$ker" | |
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