Watch George Michael: Freedom
- TV-MA
- 2017
- 1 hr 35 min
-
7.8 (1,529)
George Michael: Freedom is a documentary film that explores the life and career of the late singer, songwriter, and music icon, George Michael. The film is a tribute to Michael's extensive music catalogue, his legacy, and his impact on the music industry. The film was directed and narrated by Michael himself before his untimely death on Christmas Day in 2016, and premiered on October 16th that same year.
The documentary follows Michael's life from his early beginnings as a young boy in London to his rise to fame with Wham! and his solo career. It provides an intimate portrait of the artist, through his own words, interviews with close friends and family members, and never-before-seen archival footage. The film is also accompanied by some of Michael's greatest hits, including "Faith", "Careless Whisper," and "Father Figure."
One of the key themes of the film is George Michael's ongoing struggle with his public image and his desire for creative freedom. As he rose to fame, Michael found himself increasingly uncomfortable with the media attention and the public's perception of him. He wanted to be taken seriously as a musician and songwriter, and not just seen as a pop sensation. This desire for creative freedom led him to leave Wham! and pursue a solo career, where he was able to showcase his incredible vocal range and songwriting talent.
Throughout the film, Michael's love for music and his creativity shines through. The film shows the incredible amount of work that went into many of his songs, such as "Freedom '90," which he saw as a personal anthem. We follow Michael as he collaborated with other iconic musicians such as Elton John, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder, who all speak to his remarkable talent and spirit.
The documentary also touches on Michael's personal life, including his struggles with drug addiction, the death of his lover Anselmo Feleppa from AIDS, and his own battle with HIV. Although these topics are addressed, they are not the sole focus of the film. Instead, they are portrayed as a part of Michael's life story, and how his experiences impacted his music and his legacy.
George Michael: Freedom is a visual and emotional tour de force that demonstrates why Michael is one of the most talented and beloved musicians of all time. The film serves as both a tribute and a celebration of his life and career. The interviews with friends such as Elton John and Liam Gallagher provide a deeper insight into Michael's persona and influence on the music industry during his lifetime.
The film is also a visual treat, with stunning footage of Michael performing live, rehearsing, and recording in the studio. There are also never-before-seen clips of the making of the "Freedom '90" music video, which remains iconic today. The documentary makes great use of cuts from his music videos, concerts and interviews to paint a vivid picture of the man behind the music.
Overall, George Michael: Freedom is a testament to the impact of Michael's music, and the mark he continues to leave on the world. Directed with sensitivity and insight by the late singer himself, it is a moving tribute to the talent and legacy of one of the greatest artists of all time. If you're a fan of George Michael, this documentary is an absolute must-watch!
In conclusion, George Michael: Freedom is a documentary film that celebrates George Michael's life and career through interviews, archival footage, and some of his greatest hits. It also provides a deeper insight into his personality and influence on the music industry during his lifetime. The documentary is a moving tribute to the legacy he left behind and is highly recommended for anyone who appreciates his music.