If I were to say the name Daniel Johnston many of you would have no idea who I’m talking about. But if I said names like Beck, Death Cab for Cutie, David Bowie, Guster, Bright Eyes, Wilco and Pearl Jam everyone would recognize at least a few. But what do Daniel Johnston and some of the biggest names in music have in common? They have all cover songs by the lesser known singer/songwriter.
The Devil and Daniel Johnston illustrates the voyage of one of the best unknown artists of our time as he battles with manic depression throughout his life.
The film is full of Daniel’s home movies and audio tapes growing up as he never let his Super 8 camera or voice recorder leave his side. He was a bright kid starring in his own movies, recording beautiful music and drawing masterpieces until he “lost all of his confidence” in junior high.
In his brief stint in college, Daniel met the love of his life and was quickly heartbroken when she married an undertaker. Which was the best thing that could have ever happened to Daniel according to his best friend, David Thornberry, as she was the inspiration for so many of his songs.
Music was Daniel’s life with a goal was to become famous, whether it was his goal or the Devil’s is up for debate. He has a voice like Bob Dylan and his lyrics are as influential as the Beatles.
Daniel toured around the country with the carnival and handed his tapes to anyone that would listen. Daniel made a brief appearance on MTV and Kurt Cobain of Nirvana wore his cover art on his t-shirt everywhere for a period of time.
His career was stunted by multiple trips to the mental hospital after attacking his manager with a lead pipe, preaching the word of the Devil and pulling a plane into a downspin.
Now living at home with his parents, Daniel is still focused on his music. He still performs all over the world with the help from his dad and manager. His artwork has grown in interest as well being bought by fans and critics and featured in galleries across the country.
Director Jeff Feuerzeig, who won the best director award at Sundance 2005, does a wonderful mixing homes movies and interviews to navigate Daniel’s complicated life. The audio tapes give us an exceptional look inside his brain as well.
I rented this movie on Netflix on a limb and suggest you do the same.
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