
Do U Want It?

Do U Want It?
Where to Watch Do U Want It?

Do U Want It? is a captivating music documentary featuring the story of the renowned New Orleans rock band, Papa Grows Funk. The film provides an exploration of the dynamic journey of the ensemble with lead musician John Gros together with the enthralling saxophonist, Jason Mingledorff.
The five-piece jazz rock band, known for their contagious funk-infused performances and raw, organic sound, captivated the hearts of music lovers in the vibrant city of New Orleans and beyond for over a decade. The film elegantly captures the music scene of New Orleans, where tradition intertwines with an everyday passion not just for making music, but for living it.
John Gros, an accomplished keyboardist and vocalist, serves as the band's leader, and his love for music is evident throughout the film. He stands as a beacon of resilience and a symbol of the city's relentless spirit. Jason Mingledorff, on the other hand, provides the soulful, energetic sax elements that truly set Papa Grows Funk apart. Both these musicians along with the entire band show a unified clasp on the funk rock genre and bring it to the viewer in a raw and enchanting way.
Directed by Josh Freund and Sam Radutzky, "Do U Want It?" does more than just expose the stunning prowess of Papa Grows Funk. It delves deep into the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of true musicians who are fighting for survival in a challenging industry. The cinematography flourishes with the diverse vistas of New Orleans exposed in a soul-touching manner, uniting the soul of the city with its sonorous signature.
As the narrative unfolds, "Do U Want It?" explores themes of artistic passion, dedication, and the struggle for creative survival. The audience learns about the highs of sold-out shows and the exhilaration of recording albums, along with the lows of grueling touring schedules, team dynamics, and the stress of financial instability. It's an intimate look at the behind-the-scenes action that often remains unseen by fans.
Issue of music piracy, artist royalties, streaming services, and the survival of musicians in the digital age are also broached in this film. This aspect of the documentary gives a stark, bitter-sweet reality of their journey. There's a level of raw honesty portrayed that allows viewers to understand not only the struggles of Papa Grows Funk, but of countless musicians working tirelessly on their dreams.
Adding a richer layer to the storytelling is the powerful montage of impromptu jam sessions, backstage antics, and club gigs. The toe-tapping tunes set to scenic shots of the soulful city of New Orleans make this movie as engaging visually as it is audibly. This documentary is as much a love letter to funk music as it is a testament to the vivacious musical landscape of New Orleans.
Amid the groove-laden tracks and energetic performance clips, "Do U Want It?" offers fans a candid perspective on life as a touring musician. The challenges and victories of Papa Grows Funk are depicted with both finesse and raw emotion by the filmmakers. The film is as much a tribute to Papa Grows Funk as it is an homage to the spirit of New Orleans and its rich musical heritage.
"Do U Want It?" is a testament to the unsung artists who cultivate their craft with copious amounts of love and dedication. This film is a must-see for any music lover, particularly those with an interest in funk and the vibrant music scene of New Orleans. It's an atmospheric journey filled with rhythm, grooves, highs and lows, offering a profound look at the unseen side of the music industry. Through the story of Papa Grows Funk, the audience is left to consider and reflect upon the question the title poses—Do U Want It? The filmmaker's intention seems to extend beyond the band's journey and into the universality of a pursuit for dreams, irrespective of the field. Combining elements of artistry, struggle, dedication, passion, city spirit, and authenticity, "Do U Want It?" paints a poignant picture of music, struggle, resilience, and ultimately, survival.
