Breaking A Monster

Breaking A Monster is a 2015 documentary film by director Luke Meyer. This staggering piece of cinematography captures the journey of the teenage heavy metal band from Brooklyn, Unlocking the Truth, comprising three incredibly talented black middle schoolers - Malcolm Brickhouse, Jarad Dawkins, and Alec Atkins. Their immense popularity on the internet led them to a $1.8 million recording contract with Sony. However, this documentary captures much more than the raw vibrancy of their growing music career.

Teenagers forming a band and playing music might seem like a default coming-of-age storyline. However, Breaking A Monster is not just another story about dreams coming true or the struggles of budding musicians. It delves into the complex world of the music industry, youth fame, and the challenges they face amidst it all. The movie perfectly encapsulates the whirlwind journey of three 7th graders evolving into professional musicians, and how they grapple with the capitalist machinations of the industry, the pressures of fame, and the grind of growing up, while trying to harness their passion for heavy-metal music.

The story starts when the trio are still practising in their parents’ basement in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Their unadulterated passion and raw talent are evident from the very beginning. Soon, a video of these school kids playing horse-powered heavy metal on the streets of Times Square goes viral, catching attention from every corner, leading to them being signed by Sony. They transform overnight from a street band to a major label phenomenon.

Breaking A Monster navigates how Malcolm, Jarad, and Alec are thrust into the demanding world of music at an incredibly youthful age, while attempting to stay true to their spirit and drive. Their manager, Alan Sacks, a 70-year-old industry veteran and the man behind the popular sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter, helps steer the band while they try to maintain their childish innocence in an anything-but-innocent world. The movie mainly focuses on the boys' wrestling with the realities of the music industry, and the disconnect becomes increasingly apparent.

As the film progresses, it captures a paradox - it's both about the kids that these boys naturally are and about their dreams to become successful musicians. There are scenes showing them in negotiations with label executives during the day and playing video games at night, painting a stark contrast. They are caught between two contrasting worlds, trying to balance traditional adolescence and a rapidly growing professional life. But what breaks your heart - and hence the title - is watching these sweet-natured kids transforming into professionals under pressure, facing the consequences of their success.

The beauty of Meyer's direction lies in his deft portrayal of Malcolm, Jarad, and Alec as both typical teenagers and serious musicians simultaneously navigating two separate worlds. It sheds light on elements beyond the music itself - the complex realities of the music industry, the manipulation involved, the struggle of young musicians, and the bittersweet experience that success sometimes brings.

Breaking A Monster is brilliantly captured, presenting an engaging narrative enriched with unrehearsed moments. It's powered by the compelling performances by the tremendous trio, adding authenticity and a personal touch, making it unforgettable. There are moments that make you smile, others make you dance, and many that make you ponder. It covers profound themes such as passion, manipulation, youth, and success in a way that is sure to resonate with the audience. It's an unforgettable journey marked by music, dreams, struggle, hard work, and innocence.

With impressive shots, brilliantly captured emotions, and the dynamic music of Unlocking the Truth in the background, this documentary offers an exhilarating ride. It's an underdog tale, a coming-of-age story, and a tale about the music industry - all seamlessly blended into one. You watch Brickhouse, Dawkins, Atkins - and the monster of the industry - breaking, growing, evolving, succeeding, and struggling, all in the span of 92 minutes.

Breaking A Monster tells a story filled with heart and truth, one that permanent resonates with viewers. It is a must-watch for any music lover, aspiring musician, or anyone interested in understanding the high-stakes world of the music industry and the struggles that come with early fame. Breaking A Monster is much more than a film. It's a testament to resilience, passion, youth, and the indomitable spirit of rock and roll.