Before I watched this LEGO movie, I knew only two of Pharrell Williams’ songs, being the hits Get Lucky and Happy. I suspect many who will see Piece by Piece will know many more. Now, having watched this animated documentary, I’m far better informed.
The film paints Pharrell as a man-child who felt he didn’t fit in and has since forged a remarkable career. He’s excelled as a musician and music producer, stamped his mark on fashion and is an unashamed deep thinker. He’s also a dreamer, someone who wants to make a positive difference to the world. It charts his story from humble beginnings through to how he got his start in the music business, forging a special bond with Chad Hugo, and beyond. In fact, he became known as one half of the music production duo The Neptunes.
From the outset, Pharrell saw colour in music. It moved him and it called out to him. He went on to produce hit songs for some of the biggest names in the industry, including Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake, Snoop Dog and Gwen Stefani. The voices of all feature in Piece by Piece, as do Pharrell’s, his parents and many who work with him, including other big name stars.
Pharrell is considered one of the most influential music producers of the 21st century. He has won 13 Grammy Awards, including those for 2004, 2014 and 2019 Producer of the Year. His own music style morphed from hip-hop to pop. He partnered with a Japanese fashion icon to create the street wear brand Billionaire Boys Club.
Co-written and directed by Morgan Neville, Piece by Piece has been crafted using LEGO animation. The movie charts Pharrell’s path in linear fashion, including some bumps and wrong turns along the way. You get the feeling that at times he struggled to find meaning, but when he did it was pure joy. He comes across as an ideas man who is driven to create. There is no stopping him, as he throws himself headlong into his projects.
I was very surprised at how well the LEGO representation captured the essence of the man. His authenticity is never in doubt.
Piece by Piece is colourful and creative. It’s an instructive and easy watch, and paints a picture of a talented artist who has kept pushing through.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- The Lego Ninjago Movie – movie review
- The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part – movie review
- High & Low: John Galliano – movie review
Alex First is the editor of The Blurb. Alex is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He also contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.