Film Review #64 - Bob Marley: One Love (2024)

First Impression

The film’s introduction hits the right notes, immersing me in Bob Marley’s world with a blend of his iconic music and a peek into the harsh realities of his life. The opening scenes don't just introduce us to Bob Marley's story; they pull us into the very essence of creating a new album, as well as his struggles with health issues, violence, and political turmoil.

The Positives

The soundtrack is an undeniable high point, resonating with Marley's spirit and legacy. The music is not only enjoyable but also vibrant through the narrative, enhancing the storytelling with its rhythmic pulse. Scenes depicting studio sessions, especially "I Shot the Sheriff," are raw and captivating, offering a genuine peek into Marley's creative process. 

The Mixed

Kingsley Ben-Adir, immersing himself in the role of Bob Marley, brings a visual authenticity to the screen. However, his portrayal of Marley can feel stiff at times, lacking the dynamic energy he exhibited in person. This contrast becomes particularly apparent when comparing the performance to the actual footage of Marley depicted in the film, who was much more livelier and charismatic.

The cinematography, while functional, misses opportunities to deepen the visual narrative. The reliance on medium shots over potentially more impactful long shots or creative angles leaves the visual storytelling feeling somewhat flat and uninteresting. However, when music and editing come together, they manage to convey part of Marley's story effectively, especially in the scenes that talk about his fame, making the "Exodus" album, and his health problems.

The Negative

A notable low point is the lip-syncing during concert scenes, which significantly disrupts the immersion. The mismatch between the visuals and the iconic songs detracts from the otherwise engaging storytelling. Furthermore, as the movie progresses, the pacing feels all over the place, resulting in occasional narrative drag and a loss of the initial engagement.

Conclusion

Bob Marley: One Love provides a glimpse into a crucial period of the legend's life, supported by a captivating soundtrack and moments of true understanding of his musical evolution. . Although the film excels at capturing Marley's creative process, especially in the studio scenes, it faces challenges in maintaining consistent performances and visual storytelling. This cinematic venture into Bob Marley's life leaves us wanting more, hinting at the potential for a deeper exploration of his early years and rise to fame, which could be made into another film, the prequel. Despite its flaws, the film effectively captures Marley's spirit, making it a valuable viewing experience for both fans and newcomers.

Rating: 6/10

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