"Zappa" is a recent documentary on the life and legacy of the cult icon highlighting the idiosyncratic personality and offbeat work of the man. Directed by Alex Winter of "Bill and Ted" fame the film comprises images and footage from hours of film many of which were recorded by Zappa himself throughout his life and interviews with band members, acquaintances and family as they narrate and reflect on the man's unique character and his impact on them and music. With the quirky and eclectic tunes as soundtrack the doc is a visual and musical view of Popular Music from its golden age. While a fine effort Winter is a better actor than documentarian and the film lacks the appeal that a good documentary should have. Questionable editing and a lack of basic skilled directing leave this lacking the punch and oomph that a man as interesting as Zappa and his times naturally have. After watching this one gets the impression Zappa was someone who played music and nothing more, failing to reveal what made the man special and unique. For that check out "Eat That Question: Frank Zappa in His Own Words" which does a better job of conveying the man's one of a kind legacy. Another addition to the nostalgia industry that feeds and nourishes these soulless times "Zappa" resurrects a dead art form and relives memories of a much better time.
Review of Zappa
