Watch Still Bill
- NR
- 2009
- 1 hr 18 min
-
7.7 (669)
Still Bill is a documentary film directed by Damani Baker and Alex Vlack which tells the story of the R&B singer Bill Withers. The movie was released in 2009 and features interviews with Bill himself, as well as his friends, colleagues, and family members. The film follows Withers' life starting from his childhood days in a small mining town in West Virginia, through his rise to fame in the 70s as a soul singer, to his quiet retirement from music. Withers began his career in music relatively late in life, releasing his debut album Just As I Am at the age of 33. In the film, he talks about his love for music and how he came to pursue a career as a singer-songwriter. Withers was a unique voice in soul music, and his songs were noted for their thoughtful lyrics and deep emotional resonance.
The documentary is filled with interesting anecdotes and intimate details about Withers' life. Bill Withers' family members and friends share stories about his humble beginnings and his unassuming, laid-back personality. The film explores how he was able to remain grounded despite his fame and success, and how he was always more concerned with creating great music than becoming a superstar.
Still Bill also delves into Withers' creative process, showing how he wrote some of his most beloved songs. The film features interviews with Withers' co-writers and colleagues, including musicians Clarence Avant and Benorce Blackmon. The film features footage of Withers playing music in his studio and discussing how he came up with the melodies and lyrics for his songs. Watching Withers create music is mesmerizing, and some of the most powerful moments in the film come when he shares his thoughts about his work.
Despite his success as a musician, Withers never lost touch with his roots or his community. Throughout the film, he recounts stories about his interactions with regular people, and how they often inspired some of his most enduring songs. Withers' deep connection with his audience is evident in the doc, and it's clear that his music has touched the lives of countless people around the world.
Still Bill is a celebration of a man who was much more than just a singer. It's a testament to Withers' artistry, his humanity, and his commitment to creating meaningful music. The film will appeal to anyone who appreciates soulful music and wants a deeper understanding of one of the genre's most iconic figures.
In conclusion, Still Bill is a poignant and moving documentary that tells the story of one of the most important soul musicians of our time. It's a must-see for anyone who loves music, and an excellent introduction to Bill Withers' life and work for those unfamiliar with his music. The film honors a man who lived his life with integrity, humility, and deep love for the music he created.
Still Bill is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7 and a MetaScore of 76.