The Real Challenges Facing Boston Musicians Today

Read Time:3 Minute, 31 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Beautiful Was the Fight
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Dave Habeeb
Where To Watch: TBA

RAVING REVIEW: One of the most potent music documentaries I’ve seen recently ventures behind the scenes of Boston’s eclectic music scene with BEAUTIFUL WAS THE FIGHT. This documentary spotlights the lesser-heard voices of the city’s vibrant culture. Director Dave Habeeb stitches together a narrative that entertains and enlightens, highlighting the resilience and creativity of artists of all backgrounds.

In BEAUTIFUL WAS THE FIGHT, the story kicks off with an electrifying performance at The Sinclair, where Ruby Rose Fox and Walter Sickert & The Army of Broken Toys not only dazzle the audience with their vibrant sounds but also inspire Habeeb to expand his vision. What starts as a modest venture into this story becomes a profound exploration of the community’s artistic spirit, spurred on by events like the “Queen Treatment Only” concert. This pivotal moment showcases the talent and struggles of female and LGBTQ+ artists.

The documentary offers audiences a front-row seat to Boston’s diversity of musical expression. From Sapling’s indie punk melodies to Wyn Doran’s soulful vibes and Carissa Johnson’s rock energy, each artist contributes to a rich and varied soundtrack that defines the city’s soundscape. However, the narrative delves deeper than music; it confronts the poignant importance behind specific venues, underscoring the ongoing challenges within the music industry.

Habeeb’s directorial approach is refreshingly unique, employing a non-linear style that mirrors the real-life unpredictability of the artists’ careers. This method enhances the film’s authenticity, drawing viewers deeper into the featured musicians’ personal and professional highs and lows. The interviews with the artists and those around the scene add depth and importance to the story, proving that their journeys are about their passion for music and the extremes they’ll go to to make their dreams come true.

The film deserves all the praise for its candid portrayal of often-overlooked stories in a way that gives viewers a unique look at this music city that isn’t exactly a central hub. Through his seven-year odyssey of creating this film, Habeeb aims to ignite conversations about the future of Boston’s music scene and its capacity for cultural evolution.

With a background enriched by global travels and a longstanding career at Harvard Business School, where he creates multimedia case studies, Habeeb brings a worldly perspective to this local story. His extensive experience adds depth to the film, connecting with a broad spectrum of viewers, from casual observers to anyone who loves live music.

As BEAUTIFUL WAS THE FIGHT draws close, it leaves a lasting impression of hope and anticipation for the artists’ future endeavors. More than just a documentary, it is a heartfelt ode to the enduring power of community and artistic identity.

Looking ahead, Habeeb contemplates his future in filmmaking, potentially exploring new genres beyond documentaries. Yet, the impact of BEAUTIFUL WAS THE FIGHT remains, poised to inspire future filmmakers and anyone passionate about the transformative power of music and storytelling. Through his exploration of Boston’s music scene, Habeeb documents its present state and stirs dialogue about its bright and boundless future.

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[photo courtesy of LONELY BIRD FILMS]

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