91 mins.
Documentary, Music
June 14, 2013

Rated PG-13 for some strong language and sexual material. (MPAA)

The documentary “20 Feet from Stardom” starts off really well. The energy of this film blends perfectly with the music that it showcases. And the recollections of the background singers are expertly edited into that mix to create something that’s imminently watchable. However, as this film progresses, it loses its way. It devolves into a mostly sappy look at where these singers are now. Yawn. (Sorry.)

Only Darlene Love, who famously sang the original recording of “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” and starred as Danny Glover’s wife in “Lethal Weapon,” and Lisa Fischer, who’s famous for the hit “How Can I Ease the Pain?,” seem to be free of the sentimental treatment. That may be because they’re truly happy with what they’re doing now: Love has a solo career and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Fischer, a Grammy-winner for her own solo efforts, is content to be the lead female vocalist for the Stones.

This film is best when it’s light on its feet, when these women don’t seem to be victims, though they are in some ways. One of the most powerful moments in this film is Love’s account of Phil Spector’s treatment of her work: He used her as a ghost singer. Love recounts the feeling of having someone else take credit for your work.

In the first half of this film, there’s a clear focus on harmony – not only musically, but also interpersonally. A unifying force is needed to make a documentary truly work, and I thought that this film had that – again, until later in its second half. The reflections of the backup singers are this film’s strength; that’s its appropriate unifying force.

To see the history of backup singers, starting with white female singers who sang what was written on sheet music and shifting to mostly black female singers who sang from the heart, is thrilling at times. In those moments, this film shines a light on an oft-overlooked part of musical history. But it doesn’t stay there.

Also, when this film explores the differences between backup singers and stars, it hits the right notes. The section on Luther Vandross is excellent: He started as a backup singer for David Bowie, among others. Furthermore, the interviews of stars who love these artists are useful.

There’s a lot to like here. But, ultimately, “20 Feet from Stardom” is a mixed effort that fans of music from the 1960s and the 1970s will enjoy the most.

Verdict: Very Good to Somewhat Good

About: (Source: 20feet)

Millions know their voices, but no one knows their names. In his compelling new film TWENTY FEET FROM STARDOM, award-winning director Morgan Neville shines a spotlight on the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the 21st century. Triumphant and heartbreaking in equal measure, the film is both a tribute to the unsung voices who brought shape and style to popular music and a reflection on the conflicts, sacrifices and rewards of a career spent harmonizing with others.

These gifted artists span a range of styles, genres and eras of popular music, but each has a uniquely fascinating and personal story to share of life spent in the shadows of superstardom.    Along with rare archival footage and a peerless soundtrack, TWENTY FEET FROM STARDOM boasts intimate interviews with Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Mick Jagger and Sting to name just a few.  However, these world-famous figures take a backseat to the diverse array of backup singers whose lives and stories take center stage in the film.