Watch Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami
- PG
- 2017
- 1 hr 55 min
-
6.2 (1,281)
Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami is an intimate and revealing documentary that explores the life of the iconic Jamaican model, actress and musician Grace Jones. The movie, directed by Sophie Fiennes, portrays the complex and multifaceted persona of Jones, who has always been recognized for her daring fashion choices, her androgynous looks, and her groundbreaking musical career.
The film is divided into two main segments: the "bloodlight" and the "bami." The first part focuses on Jones's concert performances, revealing the intensity and energy of her live shows. The director captures Jones's theatricality, as she twists and turns on stage, singing her hits such as "Slave to the Rhythm," "Pull Up to the Bumper," and "Nightclubbing". The audience can see the sweat on her skin, feel the bass in their bones and get lost in the infectious rhythms of the music. Through it all, Jones's powerful voice and commanding presence prove why she remains an icon in the music industry to this day.
The second segment of the film is more intimate and introspective. The director follows the singer as she visits her family in her childhood home of Jamaica, and explores her roots and cultural heritage. Jones's personality shines through as she spends time with her relatives, sharing meals and stories with them. Fiennes also shows the singer rehearsing on her own, adjusting her costumes, and reflecting on her artistic journey. The audience glimpses into Jones's creative process, and sees a woman who is both proud of her past and constantly evolving, always striving to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Throughout the film, there are many moments that showcase Jones's playful and spontaneous personality. Her interactions with her longtime creative director, Jean-Paul Goude, and her drummer, Lowell 'Sly' Dunbar, offer insight into her relationships with collaborators and friends. The audience can see Jones's sense of humour, as she jokes around and plays pranks on her team, and moments of emotional rawness, where she speaks candidly about her struggles with family, identity and relationships.
One of the strengths of the documentary is the way it incorporates Jones's music, fashion and art into the narrative. Fiennes doesn't shy away from showing the singer's iconic fashion choices, from her metal corset to her tribal face paint, to her towering headpieces. The film also features excerpts from Jones's art installations, where she combines audio and visual elements to create unique and immersive experiences.
The documentary also includes scenes from Jones's private life, where she talks about her personal relationships and reveals her vulnerability. While Jones has always been known for her fierce exterior, the film shows a softer, more relatable side to her, as she opens up about her past and her hopes for the future.
Overall, Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami is a fascinating and insightful documentary that provides an intimate look at the life and career of one of the most influential artists of our time. The film showcases Jones's talent, versatility and boundless energy, while also inviting the audience to connect with her on a personal level. It's a must-see for any fan of Grace Jones, and an excellent entry point for those who want to discover the magic of her artistry.
Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami is a 2017 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2 and a MetaScore of 75.