Mumford & Sons - We Wrote this Yesterday

Described as an intimate, behind-the-scenes anecdote of one of the world's most successful and beloved folk rock bands, Mumford & Sons - We Wrote this Yesterday, is an engrossing musical journey that blends the raw, genuine aura of the studio, the energy of the stage, and the tumultuous journey in between.

Meticulously structured, this documentary film showcases the band in their most direct and organic incarnation. Mumford & Sons, known for electrifying anthems such as 'Little Lion Man', 'The Cave', and 'I Will Wait', offer their fans insight into their real world, breaking down the walls of stardom, and letting viewers into their creative process.

The film begins with the group, comprising Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall, and Ted Dwane, deciding to do something different. Having reached the pinnacle of success, they take a hiatus from relentless tours and studio recordings to engage in a creative retreat in an unfamiliar place: South Africa.

This journey is not just an escape, but also a pilgrimage into the heart of inspiration. The idea is to collaborate with local musicians, exploring fresh sounds, and processing them through their unique musical filter. This collaborative venture results in the creation of their Johannesburg EP, a project that blends their signature sound with South African musical traditions.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to in-depth interviews, casual conversations, emotional reflections, and enthralling jamming sessions, ultimately offering a more detailed portrayal of the group, their relationships, and the very essence that makes Mumford & Sons unique.

The director, Sam Wrench, adopts a free-flowing style of filmmaking, capturing candid moments and honest emotions, allowing viewers to feel like a part of the group's journey. The various interactions, especially those with local musicians, emphasize the universal language of music and its ability to bridge cultural and geographical gaps.

The film also delves into the individual personas of band members. Marcus Mumford, the leading vocalist and face of the band, emerges as a nurturing figure with a reflective mindset. Ben Lovett, often the anchor of the band, showcases his inclination for perfecting every note played on his keyboard. Winston Marshall, with his trademark banjo, emerges as the fun-loving joker of the band. And Ted Dwane, the silent pillar, who lets his bass guitar do the talking, exhibits his unfettered artistic instincts.

The live performance snippets are a treat in themselves too. Audience interactions, backstage chaos, on-stage wrecking moments come alive as the film beautifully frames the anxiety, the exhilaration, the camaraderie and what it really means to be a part of Mumford & Sons.

Subtly narrated, the narrative is shot in a manner that allows viewers to experience the musicians’ interactions, conversations, and philosophies, absorb their creative aura, and appreciate their artistic revelations. Whether it's the scenic landscapes of South Africa that serve as evocative backdrops, the enchanting local music that acts as the film's beating heart, or the raw, unfiltered moments that expose the soul of the band, We Wrote this Yesterday is a visually and sonically magnificent testament of the band's exploratory journey.

Beyond just the creation of music, the film presents societal observations, local life, and the spirit of humanity. It unfolds, with every passing moment, the transformative power music possesses, how it can float seamlessly across borders, breaking linguistic, cultural, and ethnic barriers, forming a bond between people who have nothing in common but a simple love for melody and rhythm.

However, the charm of Mumford & Sons - We Wrote this Yesterday sits within the exploration of the band's journey. Starting as a band dreaming of music, to loving every small gig they played, then becoming global sensations, and now, taking a step back to revisit and rediscover their passion for music in an entirely new landscape – the movie documents this transformation beautifully.

Mumford & Sons - We Wrote this Yesterday is a movie that isn't just for fans of the band. It’s a film for anyone who loves music, appreciates the process of creative exploration, and understands the joy of stepping out of comfort zones to discover something truly magical. With its emotionally charged narrative and spectacular visuals, this film invites viewers to partake in a journey that captivates, inspires and moves in every possible way.