Watch Eat That Question: Frank Zappa In His Own Words

Eat That Question: Frank Zappa In His Own Words is a 2016 documentary film that takes a deep dive into the life, art and psyche of one of the most innovative, controversial and influential musicians of the 20th century - Frank Zappa. Directed by Thorsten Schütte, the documentary features a treasure trove of archival footage, interviews, and rare TV appearances of Zappa. From quirky TV interviews to incisive debates on censorship, from wild concert footage to candid personal moments - this film offers a comprehensive view of Zappa's worldview, music, and legacy.

The film begins with Zappa's early years in 1960s California, where he was a fixture of the underground music scene. We see Zappa jamming with his band, The Mothers of Invention, and crafting his signature sound that fused avant-garde compositions, jazz improvisation, rock n' roll rhythms, and satirical lyrics.

As the film progresses, we see Zappa becoming more politically engaged, tackling hot-button issues such as free speech, government censorship, and drug laws. We see clips of Zappa appearing before the U.S. Congress in 1985, arguing against the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC), which he saw as an attempt to censor creative expression through ill-informed moral panic.

Throughout the film, we also gain insight into Zappa's creative process, his inspirations, and his love for experimentation. We hear Zappa deconstructing his music and discussing the technicalities of his compositions, revealing the meticulous and perfectionist mind behind the genius.

The documentary also gives us a sense of Zappa's provocative and subversive humor, which often poked fun at societal norms and conventions. We see clips of Zappa performing outrageous acts, such as playing a bicycle as a musical instrument or performing in a tutu. However, Schütte's approach to these instances is not to critique or judge, but rather to present them as a part of Zappa's artistic vision and the cultural context of the time.

In addition to showcasing Zappa's musical and cultural contributions, Eat That Question: Frank Zappa In His Own Words also gives us a glimpse into Zappa the man. We hear Zappa discussing his philosophy of life, his views on religion, his relationships with his family and his fans.

One of the most poignant moments in the film is when Zappa reflects on his battle with prostate cancer, which ultimately claimed his life in 1993. In one interview, Zappa speaks openly about his mortality, saying: "When you go, if you can say you had a good time, then you won." It's a sobering yet inspiring moment that encapsulates Zappa's spirit of pursuing life with passion and creativity.

In terms of the film's technical aspects, Schütte's editing and pacing are spot on. He masterfully weaves together the various interviews and footage to create an engaging and insightful narrative. The accompanying soundtrack, featuring some of Zappa's most iconic songs, serves as a fitting tribute to the man some have called a musical genius.

Eat That Question: Frank Zappa In His Own Words is a film that will appeal not just to Zappa fans, but to anyone interested in the history of music, art, and culture. It's a reminder of the power of individual expression, and the need to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.

Eat That Question: Frank Zappa In His Own Words is a 2016 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 74.