Based on the book of the same name by Allan Slutsky, Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a historical tribute to the unsung heroes responsible for some of the greatest hits of pop music. Part documentary and part concert performance, this film is an introduction to the intriguing personas of the Hitsville studio band originally assembled by Berry Gordy in 1959. Over 40 years later, the remaining members reunited in their home base of Detroit, MI, to tell their stories, remember their departed bandmates, and put on a concert. The creation of the Motown sound is told through in-depth interviews, archival footage, and reenactments. Personal stories are intercut with live tracks from the concert performance featuring the Funk Brothers live on-stage along with popular vocalists interpreting some of their biggest hits. Some of the guest singers stick around for conversation with the musicians and offer a contemporary perspective, including Joan Osborne, Me'Shell NdegéOcello, and Ben Harper. The film follows the group's contributions through the '60s up until Gordy moved the label to Los Angeles in 1972. ~ Andrea LeVasseur, All Movie Guide
Review by All Movie Guide
All Movie Guide
liked it.
In a small basement studio in Detroit affectionately called "the Snakepit," a group of studio musicians called the Funk Brothers created the magical and influential Motown sound. Though the pop songs were number one hits for vocalists
Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, and Stevie Wonder, the session musicians went largely uncredited and fell into obscurity. Director Paul Justman brings these unknown artists into the forefront for a reunion concert and reflection on the history and personalities of the era. The warmly humorous personal stories are just as informative about studio recording practices as they are funny, with each bandmember finally getting a showcase of their individual contributions and playing style. In particular, bassist James Jamerson and pianist Earl Van Dyke are shown as powerful presences in the group. In addition to the affectionate recollections, the group reunites on-stage to play the old favorites with contemporary vocalists. Joan Osborne lends her soulful voice to "Heat Wave," Bootsy Collins brings his own interpretation to "Cool Jerk," and Chaka Khan teams up with Montell Jordan for the finale number "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." Suspiciously missing from this reunion is information about the group's relationship to Berry Gordy. Any resentment for lack of credit, compensation, or loyalty is overpowered by the fond memories and the result is left to mystery. Though slightly marred by unnecessary reenactments, Standing in the Shadows of Motown is an entertaining and enlightening portrait of these overlooked musical legends. ~ Andrea LeVasseur, All Movie Guide