"Documentary Review: 'Broken English' - A Creative and Appropriately Odd Homage to Marianne Faithfull, Honoring Her Stars"
In the world of music and film, "Broken English" stands out as a unique tribute to the legendary British singer-songwriter Marianne Faithfull. Directed by Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, the film is a captivating blend of documentary, performance, and flights of fancy.
The film delves into Faithfull's remarkable career, building up her biography in a basic chronological order. From her early days in rock and folk, through her forays into New Wave, Kurt Weill, jazz, spoken word, and beyond, Faithfull's diverse musical journey is beautifully depicted.
"Broken English" is not just a documentary, but a cinematic whatsit that offers a mix of documentary-style conversations, reflections on Faithfull's legacy, song covers by admirers, and staged dramatic vignettes. Tilda Swinton plays the Overseer, recording her thoughts about Faithfull into a Dictaphone, while George MacKay takes on dual roles as both the Record Keeper and Faithfull's onscreen interviewer.
The emotional climax of the film comes with the last song, "Misunderstanding," sung by Faithfull herself with support from Nick Cave and Johnny Depp. This poignant performance was her last recorded performance, making it a fitting end to a remarkable career.
The film also features a rediscovered clip of Faithfull singing Weill songs with a symphonic orchestra, as well as performances of Orton's stripped-down "As Tears Go By" and Jehnny Beth's dance-forward rendition of "Why'd Ya Do It?."
A diverse cast, including Tilda Swinton, George MacKay, Sophia Di Martino, and Zawe Ashton, bring the film to life, adding a big dollop of gutsy pretension that only enhances the film's kooky-compelling nature.
Archive material in "Broken English" includes clips of Faithfull's infamous arrest at Keith Richards' house and her meeting with Bob Dylan, offering a glimpse into the iconic moments of her life.
Marianne Faithfull, who passed away this year at the age of 78, left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her eclectic fan base, spanning various generations and musical tastes, is a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal. "Broken English" serves as a fitting tribute to this remarkable woman, immortalising her legacy for generations to come.
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