David Bowie was unquestionably a creative genius for whom “safe” and “middle of the road” didn’t cut it. He was innovative. He pushed himself. He liked to live life on the edge and admired others who did. According to the family-endorsed documentary Moonage Daydream, he was heavily influenced by his older half-brother Terry Jones who introduced him to “outsiders”.
More than anything, Bowie was curious about the world around him. He travelled extensively and he never liked to feel comfortable. To that end, he moved countries regularly and lived in a number of out of the way places. He was spiritual and his output was prolific – not just as a singer songwriter.
By the age of 33, he had released 17 albums, starred in two feature films, appeared in a Broadway play and was an accomplished painter and sculptor. Musically, he was adored. He drew huge crowds. Groupies were in tears. He declared himself bisexual. His look was androgynous. He proudly wore make up and painted his nails. Through a catalogue of his songs, many of them global hits, Bowie’s remarkable life story unfolds.
All the colour and glamour are on show in Moonage Daydream, as well as the adoring concert crowds. So, too, some of the quieter moments. Bowie’s thoughts are conveyed through a series of interviews and note how his opinions changed over time. That change was evident between his early 20s and mid 30s. And life took a significant turn when he met and later married his wife Iman at the age of 45. Mind you, that reference only appears briefly towards the tail end of this compelling documentary.
Bowie’s message and the message from this doco is clear. Life is transitory, so it is what we do with it that counts. Bowie loved the rich and colourful existence he had.
Moonage Daydream is visually arresting and, not surprisingly, features a dynamic score. Written and directed by Brett Morgen, I thought the start could have been pared back. It took a while to hear much from Bowie himself. Once we did though, I was riveted and I say that as someone who admired him, but was not an aficionado.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Mystify: Michael Hutchence – movie review
- Wayne – movie review
- Defend, Conserve, Protect – movie review
Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.
