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Best and worst biopics

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S01 E90

Welcome to another ‘thrilling’ episode of the Beat Motel Podcast! In this week’s instalment, hosts Andrew Culture and Dave Jago dive into the fascinating world of music biopics. With their signature blend of humour, insight, and a touch of cheekiness, they take us through the best and worst biopics ever made. From the jaw-droppingly accurate portrayals to the downright laughable flops, this episode is a must-listen for music and film enthusiasts alike.

Follow David Jago on Instagram (that’s an order)

https://youtu.be/IiCTSVEcdck

The Best Biopics: Celebrating Musical Legends

  1. James Brown – Get On Up Andrew and Dave kick things off with a deep dive into “Get On Up,” the biopic that chronicles the life of the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. They praise Chadwick Boseman’s phenomenal portrayal of Brown, highlighting the film’s unflinching look at both his genius and his flaws. Unlike many biopics that sugarcoat their subjects, “Get On Up” presents a balanced view, making it a standout in the genre.Memorable Quote: “This could be shown in rehab, it’s that insightful.” – Dave Jago
  2. Elton John – Rocketman Next on their list is “Rocketman,” the fantastical biopic of Elton John. What sets this film apart, according to our hosts, is its musical format where the songs are an integral part of the narrative. Andrew and Dave discuss how the film captures Elton John’s struggles with addiction and his journey to recovery with raw honesty, making it both entertaining and deeply moving.Highlight: The scene where Elton embraces his younger self, symbolizing his therapeutic journey, is particularly praised for its emotional impact.

The Worst Biopics: The Unintentional Comedies

  1. Sid Vicious – Sid and Nancy Moving on to the not-so-greats, Andrew and Dave tear into “Sid and Nancy,” the biopic about Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and his tumultuous relationship with Nancy Spungen. While Gary Oldman’s performance as Sid is lauded, the film’s portrayal of the other band members, especially Johnny Rotten and Paul Cook, leaves much to be desired. The inaccuracies and dramatizations detract from the film’s credibility, making it more of a cautionary tale for filmmakers.
  2. Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody No discussion of biopic flops would be complete without mentioning “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Despite its commercial success, Andrew and Dave criticize the film for its sanitized portrayal of Freddie Mercury and the band’s history. They argue that the film’s reluctance to fully embrace Mercury’s complex life and the band’s controversial moments results in a shallow and somewhat homophobic depiction.

Honorable Mentions and Dishonorable Discharges

In addition to the main picks, Andrew and Dave briefly touch on other notable biopics. They give shoutouts to films that almost made the cut, either for being exceptionally good or laughably bad. Each mention comes with a quick, witty analysis that keeps listeners engaged and entertained.

Riff of the Week

As always, the episode features the much-loved segment, Riff of the Week. This time, Andrew and Dave’s picks are:

  • Dave’s Pick: Muse – “Hysteria” from the album Absolution.
  • Andrew’s Pick: Smote – “The Opinion of the Lamb, Part One.”

Listener Interactions and Social Media Shoutouts

Andrew and Dave also take a moment to thank their listeners for interacting with them on social media. They share some of their favorite comments and questions, making the episode feel interactive and inclusive.

Conclusion: Why Biopics Matter

Wrapping up the episode, Andrew and Dave reflect on the importance of biopics in preserving and celebrating musical legacies. They emphasize that while some films miss the mark, others manage to capture the essence of their subjects, inspiring new generations of fans.

Call to Action

Don’t miss out on future episodes of Beat Motel! Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform, follow them on social media, and leave a review to let Andrew and Dave know what you think.

Riffs of the week

Jago’s Riff

  • Muse – Stockholm Syndrome (opening)

Andrew’s Riff

  • Smote – The Opinion Of The Lamb Pt. 1 (Live In Blank Studios) (13:12)

Jago’s track choices

  1. James Brown – Mind Power (6:50)
    • FILM: Get on up
  2. Elton John – Funeral for a Friend / Love Lies Bleeding (6:43)
    • Film: Rocket Man
  3. The Doors – When the Music’s Over (0:25)
    • Film: The Doors
  4. Happy Mondays – Step On (Opening)
    • Film: 24 Hour Party People

Andrew’s track choices

  1. Sid Vicious – Something Else (0:37)
    • FILM: Sid & Nancy
  2. Jimi Hendrix – Axis Bold as Love (2:49)
    • FILM: Jimi: All is by my side
  3. Queen – Brighton Rock (3:18)
    • FILM: Bohemian Rhapsody
  4. Johnny Cash – Walk the line (opening)
    • FILM: Walk the line

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