Review of 20 Feet from Stardom (2013) by Alan W — 09 May 2014

For a subject matter so fascinating and dramatic, it is surprising that no one has made a documentary about backing singers before. By concentrating on a handful of (older) singers, the narrative is coherent and focused but it can also feel a little over-simplified, and more modern issues (such as the rise of featuring in credits and the use of backing singers upfront for more dance orientated hits) are untouched.

One also can't help but sense the glossy, showbiz-zy sincerity oozing from the film - take a drink every time anyone says the word 'gift' as in "it's a gift to have such an amazing voice", you won't be conscious for the end of the film.

Nevertheless, it is entertaining and poignant when it hits those marks and it is a joy to see people normally hidden away in the back, front and centre in the limelight, at least for this film.