The key to making a documentary that chronicles the history of any given band is to get viewers who may not necessarily like said band's music to at least appreciate its influence. Using that formula, one could say that “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” is a stellar success.
Granted, I will probably never listen to a Fishbone tune outside of this motion picture but I can certainly bow down to the band after having been enlightened to their spirited significance – something that would most definitely have not been the case had writer/directors Chris Metzler and Lev Anderson simply sung its praises, as is the case with so many similar projects.
Laurence Fishburne narrates “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone,” which takes viewers on a journey into the personal lives of Fishbone, a Black rock band that rose to prominence only to fall apart when on the verge of “making it.” It is a story about artists in their quest to reclaim their musical legacy while debunking the myths of young Black men from urban America.
At the heart of Fishbone's story is lead singer Angelo Moore and bassist Norwood Fisher who show how they keep the band rolling, out of pride, desperation and love for their art. To overcome money woes, family strife and the strain of being aging Punk rockers on the road, Norwood and Angelo are challenged to re-invent themselves in the face of dysfunction and ghosts from a painful past.
The passion that emanates from both Norwood and Angelo is enough to make just about anyone a believer in Fishbone. However, Metzler and Anderson include interviews with Flea, Gwen Stefani, Ice-T, Perry Farrell, Branford Marsalis, George Clinton, Tim Robbins and Gogol Bordello, all of whom demonstrate a devotion for the band that rockets them through the roof.
Having said that, it is likely – and understandable – that viewers who already have an appreciation for Fishbone's style of music will embrace “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” more than those who do not. However, as previously mentioned, one does not have to be a fan of the the music t find meaning in it, thanks to Metzler and Anderson's personal approach.
Moreover, “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” is also enormously entertaining thanks to the energy the two filmmakers injected into each and every scene. However, it is the intimacy to which the movie speaks that makes it not only special but also significant, as it teaches viewers – by example – to live life with creativity and persistence.
“Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” (NR – 103 minutes) is now playing exclusively at Harkins Valley Art. Visit FirstLook.com for specific showtimes.
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