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Cast: Andre Benjamin, Hayley Atwellm, Imogen Poots, Ruth Negga
OutKasts André Benjamin stars as Jimi Hendrix in this revealing biopic from writer-director John Ridley (12 Years A Slave). Covering a transformative year in Hendrix's life from 1966-67, in which he went from a New York City backing musician to making his mark in London s music scene up until his Monterey Pop triumph, the film presents an intimate portrait of the sensitive young musician on the verge of becoming a rock legend.
The above is about all you need to know before watching "Jimi: All is by My Side." I have seen a lot of mixed reviews in regards to how accurate the film is, some people loved it while others say it is not at all accurate and they even resort to calling it racist. I was a bit young when Jimi first started out and I have never read his biography but I take it that the film makers did their research before making the film and I trust they did his story justice even though I know they tend to take liberties with story lines. The film covers just one year of his life from 1966 to 67, a time when he was attempting to make a name for himself and a few people who were willing to help because they believed in his talents.
I found the film to be a bit slow but interesting enough, the film makers did a good job focusing on the man after they were denied the right to use Jimi's music in the film. I am not going to go into major plot details here so not to ruin it for those wanting to see the film but I will say that I have seen better bio-pics and I have seen worse. The film's biggest asset was Andre Benjamin who did a fantastic job playing Jimi. The rest of the supporting cast including Hayley Atwell and Imogen Poots were very good as well.
I did enjoy the film but I cannot say others will because it all depends on how well you know Jimi's story before watching the film and how much you believe is true here. I had no stake in it because I was a bit too young at the time of his rise to fame but I did find the film to be entertaining.
Available now, you can order the DVD HERE and the Blu-ray HERE.
Released by XLRator Media
*** 1/2 Out Of *****