Bananaz

Bananaz is a documentary film that offers an intimate look at the creation of the iconic British virtual band, Gorillaz. Director Ceri Levy began filming the project in 2000, capturing the inception and evolution of the band over six years, culminating with the release of the critically acclaimed album Demon Days in 2005. The film provides a unique glimpse behind the scenes of one of the most innovative and beloved musical projects of the 21st century. The documentary begins with the origins of Gorillaz, born out of the creative minds of Damon Albarn, the lead singer and songwriter of the British rock band Blur, and Jamie Hewlett, a renowned comic book artist. The project was initially conceived as a virtual band, comprised of four animated characters, each representing a different musical style and personality. These characters, 2D, Murdoc, Russel, and Noodle, would eventually become an integral part of the band's identity and visual aesthetic. As Levy begins filming, the band is still in its formative stages, and the characters are slowly taking shape. Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett can be seen sketching out ideas, experimenting with different musical styles and instruments, and brainstorming concepts for the band's debut album, Gorillaz. The early footage showcases the duo's creative process, illustrating their passion, energy, and dedication to bringing this innovative project to life. One of the most fascinating aspects of Bananaz is the way it captures the band's evolution over time. As the years pass, Gorillaz undergoes significant transformations, both musically and visually. The album Gorillaz (2001) showcases a more introspective and melancholic sound, while the follow-up album, Demon Days (2005), represents a bold departure into new and experimental territories. Levy's documentary highlights the band's willingness to push boundaries and take risks, often at the expense of commercial success. Throughout the film, Levy also explores the relationships between the band members, both real and virtual. The documentary delves into the dynamic between Albarn, Hewlett, and their collaborators, showcasing the creative tension and camaraderie that fueled the band's growth. The film also shines a light on the characters themselves, providing insight into their individual personalities and motivations. For example, 2D, the melancholic and introspective lead singer, is revealed to be a product of Albarn's own emotional struggles and creative blockages. One of the most compelling aspects of Bananaz is its portrayal of the band's impact on contemporary music. As Gorillaz continues to evolve and experiment, their influence can be seen in the work of other artists and bands. From hip-hop and electronic music to rock and pop, the film demonstrates how Gorillaz's innovative spirit has permeated the music landscape. Levy's documentary celebrates the band's contributions to music, exploring the ways in which they have pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Bananaz also offers a unique glimpse into the world of animation and visual arts, showcasing Hewlett's remarkable talent as a comic book artist. The film provides a fascinating look at the process of creating the band's distinctive visual aesthetic, from concept sketches to finalized animations. Levy's footage captures the intricate details and textures of Hewlett's artwork, highlighting the attention to detail and craftsmanship that has made Gorillaz's visual identity so iconic. Throughout the documentary, Levy also captures the band's live performances, showcasing their energy and charisma on stage. From intimate club shows to major festivals and concerts, Gorillaz's live shows are a testament to their ability to connect with audiences and create a sense of community. The film includes footage of some of the band's most memorable performances, including a remarkable concert in Mexico City, where the band played to a capacity crowd of over 100,000 fans. As Bananaz comes to a close, the band is poised on the brink of major success. The release of Demon Days marks a turning point in Gorillaz's career, catapulting them to international stardom and cementing their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 21st century. The documentary ends on a poignant note, capturing the band's emotions and reflections on their journey to date. As Levy's camera fades to black, the characters of 2D, Murdoc, Russel, and Noodle remain, forever frozen in time, their legacy already secured as pioneers of a new era in music and art. Bananaz is a captivating documentary that offers a unique glimpse into the world of Gorillaz. Through Levy's intimate and insightful filmmaking, the documentary reveals the band's creative process, their relationships, and their impact on contemporary music. By capturing the band's evolution over six years, Bananaz provides a fascinating look at the making of a musical masterpiece, and an unforgettable journey into the hearts and minds of two visionary artists.