Twenty Feet from Stardom Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A bunch of talented singers stand slightly behind famous people and occasionally get to sing louder than usual, while also dealing with the existential dread of never being fully appreciated, all thanks to luck, timing, and Phil Spector.

🍿 Twenty Feet from Stardom: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the World of Backup Singers

The documentary opens by introducing the often-unseen world of backup singers. It highlights how these talented individuals provide crucial vocal support to some of the biggest names in music, yet remain largely unknown to the general public. The film sets the stage for exploring their stories and contributions to iconic songs.

The History and Evolution of Backup Singing

The film delves into the history of backup singing, tracing its roots from gospel music to its integration into rock and roll and pop. It emphasizes the significant role African-American women played in shaping the sound of popular music. Through archival footage and interviews, the documentary illustrates how backup singers added depth and soul to countless hit records.

Spotlight on Darlene Love and Phil Spector

A significant portion of the documentary focuses on Darlene Love and her experiences working with producer Phil Spector. It reveals how Love’s powerful voice was used on numerous hits, but credited to other artists like The Crystals. This section explores the challenges she faced, including Spector’s control over her career and the lack of recognition for her talent.

The Struggles and Aspirations of Solo Careers

The documentary examines the aspirations of backup singers to launch their own solo careers. It highlights the difficulties they encountered, including the challenges of transitioning from supporting roles to center stage. The film explores the various factors that contributed to their struggles, such as the competitive nature of the music industry and the complexities of achieving stardom.

Modern Day Backup Singing and Future Prospects

The film also looks at the contemporary landscape of backup singing and its future prospects. It features newer talents and addresses the changing dynamics of the music industry. The use of technology and autotune in modern music production, and how it affects job opportunities for live backup singers, is also discussed.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Darlene Love (Self): A talented singer exploited by Phil Spector, Darlene Love persevered through hardship to eventually achieve recognition for her contributions to iconic songs.
• Merry Clayton (Self): Known for her powerful vocals on ‘Gimme Shelter,’ Merry Clayton is a highly sought-after backup singer whose solo career never reached the same heights.
• Lisa Fischer (Self): A versatile and in-demand vocalist, Lisa Fischer is content as a backup singer, touring with major artists like the Rolling Stones while also pursuing her own music.
• Judith Hill (Self): A younger backup singer, Judith Hill represents a new generation navigating the music industry while striving for solo stardom.
• Bruce Springsteen (Self): As a successful rock star, Bruce Springsteen provides insights on the complex dynamics between backup singers and lead performers.
• Mick Jagger (Self): The iconic frontman of the Rolling Stones reflects on the invaluable contributions of backup singers to his band’s signature sound.
• Sting (Self): A renowned singer-songwriter, Sting contemplates the elusive factors that differentiate a talented vocalist from a true star.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Lynn Mabry: “Backup singers just bring so much more life to the situation. When a voice opens up, there comes the life. That’s when its a person to person connection.” – Expressing the importance of backup singers in providing a vital, human connection to the music.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $4,946,445
• Worldwide Gross: $5,839,368

💥 Twenty Feet from Stardom Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved this film! It gave me a new appreciation for the singers I never knew, but whose voices I’ve always loved. Seeing Merry Clayton’s isolated vocals from ‘Gimme Shelter’ gave me chills, and I was floored by Darlene Love’s story. It’s inspiring and a little heartbreaking, but ultimately a celebration of talent. Made me want to listen to all my old records again! I love that it finally put the spotlight on some truly talented folks who have been waiting for their moment.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Music lovers”
  • “Documentary enthusiasts”
  • “Fans of soul, rock, and pop music”
  • “Those interested in music history”
  • “Anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes aspects of the music industry”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Discussion of exploitation in the music industry”
  • “Some language”
  • “Brief mentions of drug use and personal struggles”

Professional Reviews

• Indiewire: “A fascinating look at the unsung heroes of popular music, ‘Twenty Feet from Stardom’ is a soulful celebration of talent and perseverance, showcasing the voices that shaped generations of iconic songs.
• The New York Times: “Morgan Neville’s documentary illuminates the remarkable contributions of backup singers, capturing their artistry, struggles, and enduring passion for music with grace and insight.
• The Guardian: “A warm and engaging tribute to the powerhouse voices that have graced countless hit records, ‘Twenty Feet from Stardom’ shines a light on the remarkable lives and careers of backup singers.

Audience Reactions

The isolated vocal tracks of famous songs were incredibly powerful and highlighted the singers’ talent.: Viewers praised the film’s ability to reveal the talent and contributions of previously unknown artists.

Darlene Love’s story resonated deeply, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of a talented artist.: Darlene Love’s story resonated deeply, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of a talented artist.

The movie highlighted a part of music history that is often overlooked.: The movie highlighted a part of music history that is often overlooked.

Overall Consensus: A heartwarming and informative documentary that celebrates the remarkable contributions of backup singers, while also shedding light on the challenges they face in the music industry.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Documentary Feature)- 2014

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was a financial success, grossing over $5 million internationally on a $1 million budget.”
• “Director Morgan Neville secured interviews with music legends like Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, and Sting, who emphasized the vital role of backup singers in their iconic songs.”
• “Merry Clayton’s isolated vocal track from The Rolling Stones’ ‘Gimme Shelter’ is featured, showcasing the raw power and impact of her performance.”
• “The film explores the racial dynamics in the music industry, highlighting the contributions of African-American women to rock and roll and pop music.”

🖥️ How to Watch Twenty Feet from Stardom?

Twenty Feet from Stardom is available on various streaming platforms and for purchase. Check services like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies for rental or purchase options. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Twenty Feet from Stardom, you might like these similar films:

• Standing in the Shadows of Motown (2002): Focuses on the untold story of The Funk Brothers, the studio musicians behind the Motown sound, similar to highlighting the uncredited talent.
• Muscle Shoals (2013): Explores the history and impact of the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and the session musicians who contributed to numerous hit records.
• Searching for Sugar Man (2012): Tells the story of a forgotten musician who unknowingly became a massive star in South Africa, highlighting the vagaries of fame and recognition in the music industry.
• Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008): A cult classic that follows the real-life struggles of a Canadian heavy metal band who never achieved mainstream success, appealing to viewers interested in the ‘underdog’ story.

🛒 Twenty Feet from Stardom Related Products

• Twenty Feet from Stardom [Blu-ray]: Experience the Oscar-winning documentary in stunning high definition. Includes bonus features and behind-the-scenes content.
• Twenty Feet From Stardom: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Own the official soundtrack to the film, featuring iconic songs and unforgettable performances by the featured artists.
• Darlene Love – Introducing Darlene Love: Hear what Darlene Love sounds like when she’s in the spotlight on her own. The singer of ‘He’s a Rebel’ at her very best.
• Twenty Feet From Stardom Movie Poster: Decorate your space with this high-quality movie poster, showcasing the stars and spirit of the documentary.

🎧 Soundtrack

Twenty Feet from Stardom features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Walk On The Wild Side” – performed by Lou Reed
• “Gimme Shelter” – performed by The Rolling Stones
• “He’s A Rebel” – performed by The Blossoms (credited to The Crystals)

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Merry Clayton on Recording ‘Gimme Shelter” with the Rolling Stones on The Queen Latifah Show

Ever wonder about the story behind that iconic ‘Gimme Shelter’ vocal? Merry Clayton shares the wild night she recorded it with the Rolling Stones – you won’t believe what happened!

Why Talent Isn’t Enough: My Review of 20 Feet from Stardom

This documentary review gets to the heart of the film’s powerful message: talent alone isn’t always enough. It dives into the untold stories of some incredible backup singers, making you think about what success really means.

Merry Clayton, Darlene Love, Morgan Neville on ‘Twenty Feet From Stardom’: Sundance Film Festival

Want to hear directly from the stars of ’20 Feet From Stardom’? Check out this interview with Merry Clayton, Darlene Love, and the director at Sundance. Their passion is contagious!

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