Review of Scott Walker: 30 Century Man (2007) by David B — 22 Jun 2011

The first two-thirds is an interesting look at a 60s pop star struggling to find his identity and voice away from fanzine covers and the Top of the Pops. Unfortunately, the last third, when he finally creates the music in his head, bogs down in the abstract, esoteric and downright self-indulgent.

Scott Walker appears to be a fascinating subject for an in-depth film, but only the first hour gives any sort of context to the man and his music. He has his devotees--including Bowie, Eno, Johnny Marr, Radiohead and Sting--but it would be hard to call his later day creations "songs" in any traditional sense of the word. Still, as one person points out during the film, even if you don't want to follow him through the dark depths of his soul, it's good to know that Walker himself is willing to go there, plant his flag, and let the world know that such a place exists.