Serj Tankian: Elect the Dead Symphony, is an epic musical journey that showcases the unique talent of the iconic rock vocalist and composer, Serj Tankian. This captivating film was released in 2010 and includes performances by Miranda Adam, Christian Calloway, Hamish McKeich, and Dan Monti. This inspiring music-themed documentary was not simply about the execution of a project; it was a once in a lifetime experience, transformed into a spectacle for millions to enjoy.

At the heart of this compelling film, Tankian’s powerful, one-of-a-kind voice and commanding stage presence are prominently featured. Outspoken, passionate, talented and multifaceted, Tankian - best known as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and keyboardist of the band System of a Down - is recognized for his dynamic vocal range and powerful lyrics. His unique blend of artistry transcends the typical parameters of the rock genre, offering instead a diverse, creative sound marked by strong social and political undertones.

The film opens with the singer stepping outside of his typical rock sphere to journey into the world of orchestral music. Venturing into a grand symphonic exploration of his critically acclaimed debut solo album, “Elect the Dead,” Serj Tankian: Elect the Dead Symphony is a breathtaking amalgamation of rock and classical symphony that elevates music to an entirely new plane.

The magnificent Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, immaculately conducted by Hamish McKeich, collaborates with Tankian to deliver an extraordinary performance. We see notable musicians such as Miranda Adam, Christian Calloway, and Dan Monti gracing the stage, each contributing uniquely to the majestic symphony. Their collective execution of Tankian's compositions marries rock grit with classical grace, pushing boundaries and delivering a unique sound that creates an impactful and unforgettable experience for viewers.

Throughout the film, we observe the tension, passion, and exhilaration as Tankian and his team relentlessly pursue their shared aspiration of bringing a rock album to life within an orchestral framework. The result is a brilliant spectacle that not only demonstrates Tankian's musical versatility but also unravels the breadth of his creativity and his constant craving for evolution and revolution through his music.

The audience is led through an intimate journey into Tankian’s creative process. The documentary-style presentation offers a backstage pass to the making of this extraordinary event, from the arduous rehearsals to the final night's performance. It is a unique opportunity to truly understand Tankian's creative process, his motivation, and the moments of joy and challenge that come with such an ambitious undertaking.

One of the film's key strengths is that it manages to skillfully capture the intense rawness and beauty of the live performance, making it a piece of art in itself. With sweeping camera angles, impeccable sound design, and creative editing, the film manages to spotlight each musician's contribution and illustrate the power and magnetism of Tankian's performance.

Tankian's unique talent is on full display in this film as he effortlessly switches from his attritional rock vocals to his softer and more melodic nuances, with the symbiosis between Tankian and the orchestra constantly intensifying throughout the performance. Working organically with a full orchestra, Tankian amplifies the depth and emotion within each song, creating an entirely fresh yet familiar listening experience.

Serj Tankian: Elect the Dead Symphony blends rock anthems and symphony's refined complexity to create an audio-visual spectacle that proves to be a unique and daring experiment. It's an enthralling testament to the diversity and depth of Tankian's talent, offering an in-depth look into his musical journey and the exciting potential of combining two vastly different musical genres.

In conclusion, Serj Tankian: Elect the Dead Symphony encapsulates an awe-inspiring artist’s journey of musical exploration and serves as a tribute to the transformative power of music itself. Allowing the viewers a resonating connection with the artist and his music, it is more than just a documentary or concert. It is a place where rock music’s raw energy meets the intense emotion of the orchestra, creating an unprecedented music experience.