Review of Frank (2014) by Midlands M — 20 Sep 2014

A quirky independent film loosely based on the idiosyncratic UK comedic stylings of Frank Sidebottom, this movie is a fictionalised account of an eccentric musician trying to find his calling in life. Beginning in a suburban nightmare, the musical journey is seen through the eyes of Jon (a brilliantly naive Domhnall Gleeson) who leaves his humdrum life to join an unpronounceable band then spends the next 11 months working on an album of bizarre instrumentations and unusual compositions.

The lead singer is Frank (Michael Fassbender) who persistently wears an over-sized homemade head and the film follows the erratic interactions and odd relationships between new and old band members, the manager Don (an exceptional Scoot McNairy) and Frank himself.

Without a single facial expression in sight (Frank at times describes them out loud, "Welcoming smile") Fassbender delivers a virtuoso performance as the comical yet infectious front man trying to connect with world he's closed himself off to.

With the band pulling in different directions, Jon gets them a slot at South By South-West Festival in Austin, Texas but their expedition begins to unravel as tempers rise and personalities clash. As a screwball study of musical differences, the film is an infectious harmony of well acted scenes that despite a rather unsure ending, is a mirthful look at both creativity and mental hindrances.

A weird and wonderful musical tour that has a great score by Stephen Rennicks (who also co-wrote the crazy chants Frank warbles) and a surprisingly understated performance by Maggie Gyllenhaal as Clara, the silly songs by the band and the right balance of cranium and compassion make Frank a tender tale of creativity.

8/10 Midlands Movies Mike.