Russian author Leo Tolstoy famously stated, “Music is the shorthand of emotion.” In movies, it isn’t only an integral part of the film as a work of art. These selections from this year’s Dallas International Film Festival prove that music’s power goes well beyond the notes.
For one, just as Beatles songs ignite minds and spirits across the world whenever they play, music can evoke powerful memories. In the documentary Good Ol' Freda (April 6 and 7 at Angelika Film Center Dallas), it does just that.
In this emotive documentary, the personal secretary of the legendary band shares her intimate experience with John, Paul, George and Ringo. If Beatles songs are quintessential to the pop culture of the 20th century, they surely are more than that for someone whose life was shaped forever by the people and circumstances connected to those songs.
Similarly, music can be a driving force in people’s lives, instilling in them a passion that makes the journey all the more meaningful. This is partially the message of I Am Not a Rock Star (at Magnolia Theatre April 8 and 9), as the movie follows Marika Bournaki for eight years of her young life. The audience witnesses her transformation from a prodigy pianist to a young woman with more than a calling.
Music can be a narrative device as well. In the short film Black Metal (playing as part of Shorts Competition 3 on April 10 and 11 at the Angelika), music propels the protagonists into a journey that takes them beyond the red-lit stages and loud speakers and into a more human and dramatic stage of their own lives.
Even if black metal music isn’t your cup of tea, this film could be.
I Am Not a Rock Star plays April 8 and 9 at Magnolia Theatre.
