Milford Graves Full Mantis

Milford Graves Full Mantis is a pioneering and unconventional documentary film directed by Jake Meginsky in 2018. The film presents the intriguing life story of the legendary jazz percussionist Milford Graves, who has made remarkable contributions to the genre of free jazz music and its evolution through the years.

The film radically takes the form of a visual scratchpad to describe the world of Milford Graves, providing a captivating insight into his spiritual, philosophical, and scientific interpretations of sound and rhythm. The title "Full Mantis" is a reference to Graves' unique martial art style which shows the influence of Eastern philosophies on his life and music – the 'Mantis style' being a clear manifestation of the expressive spontaneity found in his drumming rhythms.

The documentary showcases Milford as a polymath as it highlights his many interests and pursuits outside of music. The film delves deep into Graves' in-depth research in cardiology, his love for martial arts, his knowledge of herbology and his role as an instructor in music. There are scenes in the film where Graves can be seen conducting bio-acoustic research in his home-served lab in Queens, New York. This paints a perfect picture of the musician's multi-faceted life, giving the viewers a feeling of looking at a Renaissance man in the modern world.

Milford Graves Full Mantis offers a comprehensive portrayal of Graves that is as rich and complex as his music. We see intimate interviews conducted by Meginsky, where Milford’s musings on music, life, and the universe give a unique perspective on his life and work. Meginsky also takes the unprecedented decision to incorporate only Graves' original compositions for the film's soundtrack, allowing a truly authentic reflection of his unique sound. This immerses the viewers in Graves' varied musical journey, which ranges from the avant-garde to the free jazz movement.

The narrative is broken up with anecdotes from Graves’ past, such as when he helped pioneer the free jazz movement in the mid-20th century. There are incredible footages of Graves performing live on stage, in his yard, and teaching at Bennington College, where the vibrancy of his performances encapsulates his dedication to rhythm and sound. Milford, not only as a musician but also as a teacher, professor, and mentor, made significant contributions that fundamentally changed the means and modes in which we perceive and appreciate jazz.

The documentary’s use of surreal visuals accompanied by the powerful sounds of Graves' drumming provides a psychedelic experience to the audience. With its sweeping shots of the New York cityscape where he grew-up and trained, the film parallels the rhythm of his music with the bustling city's pulse. The dynamic editing combined with the incredible sound design makes the film an immersive sensorial experience, making the audience feel as if they are a part of the pulsating world of Graves.

The director Jake Meginsky—a renowned percussionist himself—does an excellent job in visually encapsulating the teachings of Graves. The film becomes an intimate portrayal of a profound and spiritual journey of the acclaimed musician whose deep understanding of sound transcends beyond the musical notes. It highlights Graves' strong character, his rigid spiritual exercises, and his understanding of life and the universe, making it an important document for anyone interested in music and the exploration of sound.

Milford Graves Full Mantis is not a conventional film; it refuses to adhere to standard references and instead forms a template of its own. Shot over 12 years, the documentary presents a rare opportunity to observe the life of an experimental creator in his own environment. It invites the audience to think, perceive, and listen to Graves' worldview in his own rhythm—an intimate encounter that's worthy of contemplation.

Milford Graves Full Mantis is not merely a homage to a musical genius's legacy, but it visually immortalizes his profound philosophy of rhythmic life. A great watch for music enthusiasts, spiritual thinkers, and lovers of indie cinema, the film reaffirms the possibilities of experimental documentary film-making to authentically portray such a rich and varied life. The film ultimately serves as an inspirational document that reimagines the barriers of music, imagination, and creativity.