This music documentary is about the early start of the band The National in the year 2008. Their slow rise to popularity in the alternative rock industry was a grind compared to most other bands during that time period. The documentary features footage of the band practicing musical notes, as well as on-camera and voice-over interviews where the band describes their past experiences and their current work. The early years of the band was a journey that was difficult. Two of the band members talked about how "sad songs" put them in debt at the time which they had to pay off a month later. The film continues to move forward up to the point that "Boxer" is released. There is also footage of the band working on their album in a home studio. The camera work is done by Vincent Moon, a French director who has primarily published his work online. His raw shooting style gives the documentary an authentic feel, as if the viewer is looking at the band through their own cellphone camera, standing in the same room where all the action is taking place. There are many shots of interesting things happening in the distance or people reading lyrics on paper in a dark room. These small moments really capture what it's like to be a musician creating new music. The editing of the film seems to have applied a high contrast filter, perhaps to achieve a specific style that Vincent Moon intended.
The band's endurance is evident in a scene where they are sitting in the backyard, discussing the songs they are putting together. Padma, a violinist, also shares his thoughts about the band while practicing his violin. He is one of the background players in the group.
The band is navigating the music business and developing their own music as they move forward together. Their criteria for determining if the music is good is based on whether they themselves are enjoying it.
The music industry typically focuses on new young talent of the present. This documentary highlights the struggles that many underground musicians face throughout their lifetimes and careers. Some people join a band and eventually stop if they are unable to financially support themselves or if they become interested in other pursuits outside of keeping the band together.
The movie concludes with a shot of a guitar on the floor, accompanied by the sound of an electric guitar feedback during a live performance. This moment captures the emotional energy the band members have experienced to reach this point on stage in their careers and lives. The album Boxer went on to be a successful album for the group! The full film can be found on YouTube and free to watch.
