By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 4 cats
Director: Lian Lunson
Country: united_states
Year: 2013
Running time: 107
IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2419978/combined
Kyle says: “SING ME THE SONGS THAT SAY I LOVE YOU is a documentary of the May 2011 Town Hall concert in New York in loving memory of Kate McGarrigle by Rufus and Martha Wainwright, her children with singer/songwriter Loudon Wainwright III (McGarrigle died of Sarcoma in January 2010). The important word is ‘loving’ since the outpouring of emotion by both family members and friends is intensely moving, the film sharing with the audience a gifted woman who gave and received much love. There is considerable joy in experiencing how much music and song were at the heart of this family, separate from McGarrigle’s stature as composer and lyricist. Interspersed with excerpts from the concert are archival family films and interviews with Rufus, Martha and Anna.
“Rufus Wainwright is a contemporary exponent of the ‘troubadour’ tradition dating back to the 12th century — a traveling poet and composer of songs about love. Rufus may not be singing about chivalry, but he certainly sings about love. Frequently. He’s one of the international music scene’s finest talents, whether in the clarity of his sound, the emphasis in his phrasing, or the choice of his repertoire. In close ups during SING, we also have a chance to appreciate how he launches fearlessly and with complete commitment into a song. His renditions of ‘Southern Boys’ and ‘Walking Song’ are especially memorable, as are his duets with sister Martha on ‘First Born’ and ‘I Am a Diamond.’
“Also noteworthy are various guest performances such as Justin Vivian Bond’s ‘The Work Song’ and ‘Talk to Me of Mendocino’ by Norah Jones, as well as her duet with Emmylou Harris on ‘As Fast As My Feet Can Carry Me,’ ‘Saratoga Summer Song’ by Teddy Thompson, and ensemble renditions of ‘Heart Like a Wheel’ and McGarrigle’s final song ‘Proserpina’ — evoking the passage of time and the change of seasons. The solemnity of the occasion is leavened by humor such as Jimmy Fallon recalling the Wainwrights ‘the von Trapps’ and performing ‘The Swimming Song’ while accompanying himself on washboard.
“Director Lian Lunson’s roving camera occasionally moves capriciously and misses important musical moments, but records enough to provide a vivid sense of occasion, especially in close ups of the performers. 4 cats
“Seen Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Film Forum, New York.”