Unfinished Plan. The Path of Alain Johannes

Unfinished Plan: The Path of Alain Johannes is a remarkable documentary film that paints a vivid picture of a passionate musical spirit, whose journey through life would become a pursuit of creative expressionism, marred by tragedy yet found solace in the healing power of music. Starring Alain Johannes himself along with Natasha Shneider, this immersive documentary offers the viewer a heartwarming and intimate insight into Johannes' tumultuous life and career.

Carrying rock n’ roll in his very DNA, Alain Johannes is counted among the most respected artists in the music industry, widely known for his guitar skills and multi-instrumentalism. His pursuit of music began in his early years where he formed the band "Eleven" alongside his lifelong partner Natasha Shneider. This documentary not only reveals the astounding talent and the creative process of Alain Johannes but also presents an up-close and personal view of his life, defining his identity as an artist and a human being.

The documentary delicately unfolds Alain’s inspiring journey, from his early years to his meteoric rise in the music industry. It lays emphasis on the formation of his band, Eleven, as a milestone that sets the tone for the rest of his career. It also delves into the deep romantic and musical partnership he shared with Natasha, demonstrating how this union would become the driving force behind their musical creativity and innovations.

However, Unfinished Plan does not shy away from depicting Johannes' encounters with profound losses and struggles. Among the most tragic chapters in Johannes’ life was the loss of Natasha to cancer. This turned his world upside down, leading him on a downward spiral of despair, questioning his career and even the essence of his existence. The narrative done with sheer sensitivity captures the profound emotional turmoil he went through.

Despite the trials and tribulations that seem to overwhelm Johannes' life path, the film shows his resilience, healing, and re-emergence. Following the devastating loss of his partner, Johannes embarked on a solo career as a means of grieving, healing, and seeking redemption. His solo album, 'Spark', was a tribute to Natasha, – not just a record, but a catharsis and a beacon of his resilience.

Audiences get a deep dive into Alain's artistic process during this time, showcasing his unparalleled talent and underscoring his reputation in the music industry. Various renowned artists and friends, including Joshua Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys), and Chris Cornell (Soundgarden), among others, have contributed their thoughts and reflections about Johannes, strengthening the depth and credibility of his music journey depicted in this documentary.

Unfinished Plan: The Path of Alain Johannes takes the audience on a heartfelt odyssey. From his pedigree musical lineage as a nephew of Tom and John Cale (of Velvet Underground fame) to his co-creation of the innovative LA band - Eleven, to his association with Pearl Jam and Queens of the Stone Age and finally, to his rebirth as a solo artist, Johannes's narrative is raw, beautiful, and ultimately triumphant.

Directed by Rodolfo Gárate, this thoughtful film moves at a pace that is not hurried, letting the audience take in each chapter of the story as it is told. The cinematography exudes an intimate atmosphere as it magnificently captures the essence of Johannes' journey, his homes, his performances, and interviews. It also incorporates plenty of archival footage and photos, further immersing viewers in Johannes' world.

In conclusion, Unfinished Plan: The Path of Alain Johannes is an in-depth portrayal of an artist's life, shedding light on Johannes' achievements, his personal journey, and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. More than just a music documentary, it is a tribute to love, loss, and the undying connection between life and music. Whether or not one is aware of Alain Johannes and his contribution to the world of music, this film is bound to leave a lasting impression, making it a must-watch for music lovers and fans of profoundly human stories.