The first film based on the life of famed music artist David Bowie. Stardust tells the story of the 24 year old musician before his debut in the United States. Directed by Gabriel Range starring Johnny Flynn.
Tag: Music
Tech Review
What did Steve think of the affordable Monolith Headphones? First, the Monolith M300 Planar Headphone set is sumptuously packaged in a deluxe black box that slides out to reveal a leather case with Velcro closure containing a heavy duty plastic headphone with long nylon cable, and metal adaptor. There are also different size plastic ear… Continue reading Tech Review
Go RED!
A Black and Paper interview with Singer Musican Ricky Rebel. I like Ricky’s in your face spirit. He is not afraid to express or show how he feels while doing it with a smile and a show off my body attitude. After the attention his Red Carpet look got at the Grammys, we had… Continue reading Go RED!
Affordable Listening
Skullcandy Ink’d Wireless Bluetooth Headphones The first thing you notice about these Skullcandy Ink’d wireless Bluetooth headphones is how light they are. Initially this can give the impression of them being cheap and disposable. But you will soon find that the opposite is true and the design grows on you. They are a flexible collar-style… Continue reading Affordable Listening
Being HERSELF!
Jaki Nelson is an ordinary, relaxed Angeleno. Even if considering her school mates were Kendall and Kylie Jenner. With dreams and talent, she set herself on a musical course. The Billboard charting artist is currently preparing to tour to promote her new works. Read the exclusive Black and Paper interview. Who was your musical… Continue reading Being HERSELF!
ANC Skullcandy
My initial impression of the new Skullcandy Venue Noise Canceling Wireless is favorable. I have not given the headphones the full test yet, this is a first impression. The finish feels premium, snug fit, a bit weighty but not uncomfortable. On the design side, no logo overbranding on the side of the ear pads. The… Continue reading ANC Skullcandy
An IFA 2018 Highlight
A Headset Conversation Sponsored by Canon Camera/Werbung I had an interesting conversation at IFA 2018 with a audiophile. This journalist writes about audio products, in particular headphones. German audio group Beyerdynamic just introduced a new entry level in ear set for 25 euros. It is a curious move for the high-end label which retails headsets… Continue reading An IFA 2018 Highlight
Marshall Major III: A Tech Review
Headphones are objects of tech popularity. Black is the new Black with centered white letters is the latest style trend in my fitness circle. While at the gym I noticed a number of members using Marshall’s. The connected fit sect has moved on to a new brand. Bold colored head devices with a stylized “b”… Continue reading Marshall Major III: A Tech Review
Aretha Franklin RIP
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Black and Paper interview with filmmaker Philipp Jedicke, his first film, “Shut Up and Play the Piano” a mockumentary following the life of Musical Artist Chilly Gonzales premiered at the Berlinale.
Why did you choose to make a documentary as your first film project?
I interviewed Chilly Gonzales when I was a journalist. As I learned more about him the more I wanted to know. My curiosity was peaked. I saw his many facets, I asked if anyone has produced a portrait or film on him. He said, “no!” He told me to do it. I had a lot of ideas about making a film but none came to fruition until this project.
You were not worried about working with an artist who is talented but a bit egocentric?
Not at all! I met him person. I knew the whole Chilly Gonzales mode he goes into was really a stage persona. Behind all of that is gentle, emotional, and nice guy. As Chilly he is erratic and in rage but for him as artist it is a wall of protection. The two are linked, but totally different mind sets.
What type of humor is employed in the film?
We tried to mirror Gonzales’ humor. I hope we managed. There is a lot of irony, sarcasm, and the “HA HA Jokes”.
How much footage did you shoot, the film is 82 minutes.
We filmed a lot over the 30 shooting days, much is on the cutting room floor. This is my first film so I gave myself complete coverage. I interviewed a number of people for the film but I had to cut them which made me sad, but as a director but I wanted to stay focus on Chilly.
How long did it take you to make the film?
From the first shooting day until now, premiere at the 68thBerlinale February 2018, three and half years. We did not have the end credits finished when the film was chosen only a few weeks ago. The producers were very supportive of me, giving a lot of control.
The camera work is really good, there was a good relationship with the production team?
My team was familiar with Chilly Gonzales’ work. I was lucky because I worked with an experienced Director of Photography, Michael Winterbauer. My first DP, Marcel Kolenbach, had to leave because of a schedule conflict. The editor, Hank Drees has been in working on documentaries for 20 years and Carina Mergens. They all knew the character I was working with as well they had great enthusiasm.
What are your future plans?
I would like to make film about another musical artist. I am in talks. My site is on The Austrian Music Scene, fascinating, a lot is happening there; many artists producing techno and indie sounds.
Music influences your work?
Yes! I was a member of 2 bands, but now only one. Music has always been an important part of my life. I never tried to make a living as a musician, I wrote about music, but the saying is “Music Journalist are fustrated musicians”. I think this is true in many ways.
Shut Up and Play The Piano was screened at the 68thBerlinale.
Check local listing for release dates and screening times.
This interview is from our #thisberlinale18 coverage sponsored by Canon Camera and Pringle of Scotland.