Deep Roots Music 2: Bunny Lee Story / Black Ark is an impeccably woven tale of reggae music which foregrounds the influential personalities behind this unique genre. This remarkably original documentary showcases the storied lives and accomplishments of two of reggae's most dominating figures - a deft producer Bunny Lee and a playful madman genius Lee Perry. Also, it portrays the early days of legendary singer Bob Marley, casting him in a new light which is unseen before.

The movie opens with an idyllic snapshot of Jamaica, capturing its lush scenery which was inspirational for most of these artists. The initial section of the movie is dubbed as Bunny Lee Story, and it dives into the life of Edward O'Sullivan Lee, a veteran Jamaican producer, widely known by his nickname 'Bunny Lee'. He is credited to have produced many reggae, dub, and rocksteady classics, and his journey and contribution to reggae is indeed an overlooked part of the genre's history which the film attempts to uncover.

The director Howard Johnson takes us through Bunny's life journey and his meteoric rise in the reggae business in a captivating manner, blending narratives and music in a seamless manner. The story is narrated using a combination of archival footage, studio recordings, and interviews. Notably, through Bunny's life, the movie provides an in-depth insight into the early reggae scene and how Bunny had a crucial role in its evolution.

The subsequent segment named Black Ark charts the life of Rainford Hugh Perry, affectionately known as Lee 'Scratch' Perry, a man who is synonymous with the term reggae. A legendary figure in the reggae and dub world, Perry is portrayed as a sonic architect who built his studio called 'Black Ark' and it was there, he redefined the sound of reggae. The exploration of Perry's life is much like his music - unpredictable, mystical, and profoundly moving. His distinct personality, eccentric style, and his exceptional contribution to creating the reggae sound are presented in an honest and genuine manner.

The narrative also weaves into the story of these two extraordinary men, the life of a third — the inimitable Bob Marley. Marley's early encounters with Lee and events that led him to the zenith of global stardom are skillfully narrated. The documentary showcases how Lee's and Perry's musical collaborations with Marley significantly impacted his style and music, thereby making him the world’s best-known reggae artist.

Beyond that, Deep Roots Music 2: Bunny Lee Story / Black Ark finely captures the atmosphere and the vibrancy of the golden age of reggae. The depiction of the Jamaican music scene from the late 1960s through the 1970s, and how it was impacted by the socio-political conditions of that period, adds an essential layer of understanding to the viewers about the context where these artists emerged from.

Moreover, the movie uses music as a key narrative device. Interspersed throughout the film are hit songs and classic tunes produced by Lee and Perry, immersing the audience into the rich, diverse universe of reggae. From roots, reggae, and dub, to ska and rocksteady, the documentary is rife with tunes that make the spine tingle.

The cinematography and editing combine to construct an engaging visual narrative, with the lush landscapes of Jamaica providing an atmospheric backdrop to the film's story. Historical clippings, snippets of recording sessions, in-depth interviews, and a generous helping of live performance footage all come together to create an immersive and musical experience that few documentaries manage to achieve.

In conclusion, Deep Roots Music 2: Bunny Lee Story / Black Ark is a compelling trip down memory lane to the sights and sounds of a bygone era, shedding light on the luminary figures who have left an unforgettable mark on reggae music. For those who are unfamiliar with the roots of reggae and its early pioneers, this film provides a thorough introduction and for those who are already fans, it offers fascinating insights into the veterans of this genre. It is a must-watch for music lovers and an essential education for any fan of reggae and its deep, melodious roots.