The Socalled Movie

The Socalled Movie, released in 2010, is a unique documentary that offers an entertaining glimpse into the world of talented Canadian musician Josh Dolgin, more popularly known as Socalled. The film was directed by Garry Beitel and produced by the National Film Board of Canada. This non-traditional biographical documentation is marked by its innovative and engaging use of different storytelling tactics, captivating the audience with Socalled's extraordinary life and undeniable talent.

With a running time of 88 minutes, The Socalled Movie is an eclectic mix of scenes and stories that accurately depict the magnetic personality and multifaceted talents of Josh Dolgin. A renowned artist in the music industry, Dolgin is not only a rapper but also a pianist, magician, and visual artist, proving his ability to transcend boundaries not only in terms of artistry but also in his natural, mesmerizing persona. His signature musical style is an intriguing blend of traditional Eastern European Jewish tunes, hip-hop, and funky rhythms, which reflects his charisma and innovative spirit.

Shot in Montreal and New York, the film structure is divided into eighteen separate vignettes or "chapters". It smoothly intertwines interviews, live performances, and animated short clips. Each bit focuses on diverse aspects of his personal and professional life. The inclusion of these short chapters enhances the storytelling experience, allowing viewers to delve deeper into Dolgin’s intriguing realm beyond his stage name Socalled.

Even though The Socalled Movie is significantly centered on Josh Dolgin's eccentric personality and artistry, it is also about more than just Socalled. It circles around the sense of community in music: the collaboration and celebration of different art forms, cultures, and, most importantly, people. Directors such as Fred Wesley, an eminent funk trombonist who worked with the likes of James Brown, and David Krakauer, a celebrated klezmer clarinetist, make appearances along with other notable figures from different music genres, providing a variety of insights into Socalled's persona and his significant imprint on modern music.

One of the prime focuses of the film is Socalled's passion for reanimating the forgotten gems of Yiddish and klezmer music, often fusing them with a contemporary flair. Dolgin's persistent efforts to breathe new life into the declining traditional Jewish music and culture is one of the movie's most touching elements. His music frequently builds connections between the old and the new, thus symbolizing his love for inclusivity and diversity, a theme that is dominant throughout the film.

The Socalled Movie is filled with high-energy sequences that recreate the dynamic vibe of a Socalled concert. With scenes showcasing spontaneous music creation, humorous magic tricks, and profound conversations, the film amplifies Socalled's unique attributes, life philosophies, and his undying love for music and variety. Beitel successfully captures the infectious energy and immense talent of Socalled in a manner that is both intimate and playful.

The documentary is not solely about praising the musician but also goes beyond the typical hero-worship found in typical biopics. It portrays Josh Dolgin as a human being facing his struggles, high lights, low lights, and the more mundane aspects of his daily life with authenticity and respect while still maintaining a light-hearted and engaging tone.

Visually, the film is beautifully shot, and the animated sequences add a dash of whimsy. The editing is slick and enhances the playful energy of the film, while the music, not surprisingly, is a significant highlight. Whether you're a fan of Socalled or discovering him for the first time, the soundtrack will be a pleasant experience.

Overall, The Socalled Movie from 2010 offers viewers an enjoyable and educational experience. It's an exhilarating exploration of one man's peculiar universe, where music, magic, and reality intersect. Characterized by its non-linear storyline, diverse mixture of materials and styles, and charismatic lead character, the film presents a fresh, handcrafted, and intimate perspective of a truly original artist who constantly pushes his limits to create something unprecedented and remarkable. The narrative pays a distinct tribute to Josh's genius, blending humor and charm to genuinely inspire and captivate the audience, embodying the beautiful chaos that is Socalled.