Watch A Poem is a Naked Person

A Poem is a Naked Person is a documentary film from 1974 directed by Les Blank that portrays the life and music of musician Leon Russell in a unique and unconventional way. The movie explores the world of Leon Russell, who was considered one of the most important musicians of the seventies. The film opens with a scene of the band recording a song "Shotgun Willie" and provides a glimpse of the recording studio and the various people involved in the recording process. The film then unfolds into a series of vignettes, with each focusing on different aspects of Russell's life and music.

One of the most striking features of the movie is its use of experimental film techniques to create a visual metaphor for the music. The visual imagery includes an eclectic mix of footage from concerts, recording sessions, road trips, behind-the-scenes footage of Russell's life, and more. The result is a film that is as much a portrait of the man as it is a musical journey.

The film also explores and celebrates the creative process of music and how it helps bring people together. It captures the passion and energy that goes into creating music, and the profound effect it has on audiences. The filmmakers document a range of musical styles, from rock and roll to country, blues, gospel, and more.

The documentary successfully creates an immersive and intimate portrait of Russell, who comes across as a musician who is as devoted to his craft as he is to his fans. The movie follows Russell on his musical journeys, from sold-out concerts to the recording studio and beyond. It also provides insight into Russell's life outside of music, like his love for fishing and hunting.

The film is not just a documentary about Russell's life, but it is also a document of a particular moment in American history. The movie was filmed during the height of the '70s, and it captures the spirit of the time. A Poem is a Naked Person showcases a range of musicians, many of whom were central to the music scene at the time, including Eric Andersen, George Jones, and Willie Nelson.

The movie also explores themes of freedom, creativity, and self-expression, which were at the forefront of the counterculture movement of the time. The film is not just a celebration of music but also a commentary on society, and how music can help bring people together in a divided world.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the way it captures the energy and enthusiasm of the audience. The concert footage is captivating, and captures the energy of the crowds perfectly. It is clear that Russell was beloved by his fans, and the film captures the energy and excitement that comes with a live show.

Overall, A Poem is a Naked Person is one of the most unique and fascinating music documentaries of its time. The movie is a visionary work of art that captures the spirit and essence of Leon Russell's musical genius. With its unconventional approach to the music documentary genre, the film succeeds in capturing the essence of an era, a man, and a movement.

A Poem is a Naked Person is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 76.