NOTHING COMPARES (2022)

 

Directed By: Kathryn Ferguson  Written By: Kathryn Ferguson, Eleanor Emptage and Michael Mallie  Cinematography: Luke Jacobs  Editor: Mick Mahon 

The story of Sinéad O'Connor's rise to worldwide fame, and how her iconoclastic personality resulted in her exile from the pop mainstream. Focusing on prophetic words and deeds across a six-year period (1987-1993), the film reflects on the legacy of this fearless trailblazer, through a contemporary feminist lens.

This documentary offers a deeper look at Sinead O’Connor, especially if like me you only know her from her hit single NOTHING COMPARES 2 U (written by Prince. Whose estate refused to let it be used in this film) and tearing up a picture of the pope, live on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE.

The film offers a biography of sorts that chronicles her life and career pretty much up to the point of the infamous incident. It shows her during the backlash and a little after. Where we are told she survived but never quite goes as in-depth as it does with her earlier life.

The documentary does not feature talking heads interviews. It’s more narration by various friends, family, associates, and herself. As well as old interview snippets and performances. It definitely helped me to discover more about her. As well as illuminate her beliefs and music.

She deserves more respect. What she did then might be shocking but not as controversial today. As she was truly trying to open the audience's eyes to the abuses of the Catholic Church. Especially when it came to priests who were accused of sexually abusing children and just got reassigned. There were other issues, but at least the documentary tries to vindicate her or pays attention to her side.

The most dramatic moment is her getting booed at the Bob Dylan memorial concert. As she faces the crowd acknowledges them and performs sting and defiantly. Which she has always been even when it came to her getting a contract and the release of her first record 

The documentary not only opens your eyes but adds a new respect for her. Immediately afterward you want to check out her music. As you hear so many songs that you never realized 

She had or was so good. As she always seems to be a person who sings with passion and feeling. No songs are filler or throwaways. 

This documentary is done so well and so intimately. Whoever watches it will be enthralled and sympathetic. 

Grade: A