Kurt Cobain's legend has been inescapable in pop culture since his suicide in 1994, and Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker Brett Morgen offers his take on Cobain's story in 'Montage Of Heck'. Thanks to the support of Kurt's daughter and executive producer Frances Bean Cobain, we receive the benefit of unparalleled access to family members and archive footage in this engrossing docu-drama.
Morgen traces the journey from happy-go-lucky toddler to troubled rockstar, by way of a rocky adolescence. Sources of Cobain's misery become increasingly apparent, with his struggles to deal with rejection and his inability to cope with the pressure of being an unwilling spokesman for a disaffected generation. Unreleased home video also shows us softer moments in Cobain's volatile, drug-addled relationship with Courtney Love, with Frances Bean at its centre.
Some of the most vivid aspects in 'Montage Of Heck' come from the manner in which Cobain's journals and writings are brought to life and the incredible animated interludes led by Hisko Hulsing. Morgen skillfully transposes Cobain's pain through the screen, which makes the two hour plus running time something of an emotionally exhausting challenge. Perhaps importantly, former bandmate Dave Grohl is a notable absentee but this remains a compelling portrait of an enduring teen icon.
★★★★
(8/10)
(8/10)
DVD EXTRAS:
- Brett Morgen interview- Don Cobain interview
- Trailer
'Cobain: Montage Of Heck' is out now on VOD, Blu-ray, and DVD. Find more info at cobainfilm.com.
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