A rare foray yesterday, especially for Denise, into Ipswich town centre – I think she’s even less inclined to visit every time she goes. On this occasion, it was to the excellent film theatre to see the documentary of the wonderful Mavis Staples. The film itself was a fairly orthodox biopic, but none the worse for that as it allowed the subject to shine without the distraction of unnecessary gimmicks.
There is of course a significant backstory to Mavis’s life, and a lot of the film is as much about her roots and the Staple Singers as it is about Mavis – in particular it charts her relationship with her father, Roebuck “Pops” Staples, who appeared to be a gentle, loving man and a real musical innovator, but with a steely resolve that allowed him to capture the spirit and hope of the civil rights movement in his songs. Mavis came across as a woman with boundless talent and enormous humility, and there was plenty to learn, both at a personal (schmoozing with Bob Dylan) and musical level (her collaborations with Jeff Tweedy had completely passed me by). For once the talking heads (Bonnie Raitt, Bob Dylan, Chuck D, Al Bell and Jeff Tweedy himself) all knew what they were talking about and were entirely focused on Mavis and what she brought to the table musically. The scenes at the home of a clearly ailing Levon Helm were particularity poignant and moving and it’s a biopic where the protagonist took centre stage, rather than the film maker. For that, take a bow Jessica Edwards. Recommended to anyone who loves the Staples, Mavis and/or the development of soul from its gospel origins in the 60s. It features some powerful live performances and what I surmise is quite rare archival footage as well.