Watch ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff

ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff is a 2018 music documentary that explores the attempted assassination of reggae superstar Bob Marley in 1976. The film, directed by Kief Davidson, examines the political and social climate in Jamaica at the time and the impact that Marley's music had on the country. The documentary features interviews with key figures in the reggae and political worlds at the time of the incident, including Marley's former manager Chris Blackwell, Jamaican journalist Arnold Bertram, and Marley's ex-girlfriend Cindy Breakspeare. Together, they provide a unique perspective on the event and its aftermath.

The film begins by setting the stage for Marley's rise to fame and how he became a symbol of peace and unity in Jamaica. We learn about the tensions between the country's two major political parties, the Jamaica Labour Party and the People's National Party, which escalated into violence and gang warfare.

As Marley's popularity grew, his music became a powerful tool for encouraging peace and unity. He was scheduled to perform at a concert in Kingston in December 1976, dubbed the Smile Jamaica concert, that was intended to ease tensions between the warring parties. But just two days before the event, Marley and his entourage were attacked by gunmen in his home, injuring several people including Marley himself.

The film delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination attempt, including the involvement of the CIA, the Jamaican government, and even members of Marley's own inner circle. Bertram, who was a journalist at the time, provides valuable insight into the political machinations that may have led to the attack.

Throughout the documentary, we are treated to footage of Marley's performances, as well as interviews with musicians who worked with him, including his former bandmates Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. We also hear from Breakspeare, who was Miss World in 1976 and dated Marley for a time. Her perspective on Marley's music and influence is particularly insightful.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is how it contextualizes Marley as a political figure, rather than simply a musician. The Smile Jamaica concert was a watershed moment in Jamaican history, and Marley's music was a powerful force for social change. The documentary highlights how his message of love and unity resonated with people across the globe, and how his legacy continues to inspire musicians and activists today.

ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff is a fascinating documentary that sheds new light on the Bob Marley story. It offers a compelling perspective on the political and social forces at play in Jamaica during the 1970s, and how Marley's music transcended borders and boundaries. Davidson's direction is nuanced and engaging, making this film a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of reggae music and the legacy of Bob Marley.

ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 57 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.