Contemporary Color is a documentary film that follows the creation and performance of a unique live event that brings together musicians, dancers, and color guard teams from across North America. The film is directed by brothers Bill and Turner Ross and produced by David Byrne, the former frontman of the band Talking Heads. The film documents the event, which took place at the Barclays Center in New York City in 2015. The event was called âContemporary Colorâ and it features ten pop and rock musicians performing alongside ten color guard teams from high schools and colleges across the United States and Canada.
Color guard is a performance art form that involves the use of flags, sabres, rifles, and dance to interpret and complement music. It is traditionally associated with marching band performances, but Contemporary Color takes the art form to a new level by pairing it with live music from some of the most innovative and eclectic artists of our time.
Throughout the film, we see rehearsals and behind-the-scenes footage of the artists and performers working together to create a unique and unforgettable show. The musicians, including David Byrne, St. Vincent, Nelly Furtado, and How to Dress Well, compose original music to accompany the color guard performances, which range from playful and whimsical to serious and emotional.
In addition to the music and color guard performances, the film also explores the history and cultural significance of color guard. We learn about how the art form originated in military drill routines and how it evolved into a more artistic and expressive form of performance. We also see the dedication and hard work that goes into being a color guard member, as the performers train for months to perfect their routines.
One of the highlights of the film is the breathtaking visuals. The vibrant colors of the flags and costumes, combined with the dynamic and energetic performances, create a sensory overload that is both beautiful and awe-inspiring. The Ross brothers, who are known for their poetic and immersive visual style, capture the excitement and energy of the performances with stunning cinematography and editing.
Throughout the film, we also get to know some of the color guard members personally, as they share their stories and experiences with us. We hear about the challenges they face as performers, from dealing with injuries to overcoming nerves before a big performance. We also see the camaraderie and friendships that develop among the performers, as they work together to create something truly special.
Overall, Contemporary Color is a unique and captivating film that celebrates the art of color guard and takes it to new heights. With its stunning visuals, original music, and heartfelt stories, it is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. Whether you are a fan of music, dance, or performance art, this film is a must-see.
Contemporary Color is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 79.
