Film Review - Music (2021)

Going in knowing little about Music, I certainly, wasn’t expecting to be hit so hard emotionally throughout this most triumphant experimental trip into colours and imagination from multi-Grammy award nominee, my fellow Australian, Sia.

Soon to be seen in melodic remake West Side Story, an engaging Maddie Ziegler is Music, a teenager with autism spectrum disorder, practically non-verbal except for regular phrases throughout the routines of her day; make two eggs, go to bed or braid hair.

Overseen by her Grandmother (Mary Kay Place) Music dresses herself competently, goes on walks to library for a look at the same book on dogs and enjoys watching an amusingly dry, Tig Notaro, television show complete with large shaggy animal like mascots.

After a tragedy occurs, the missing in action, former alcoholic, half-sister to Music is called in as caregiver. Zu (Kazu) as portrayed by always hypnotic Kate Hudson, reluctantly agrees to help out, but only momentarily if her ambitions, or grand illusions of moving to Costa Rica come into fruition.

Even with assistance of neighbours George (Hector Elizondo) and Ebo (Leslie Odom Jr) as the sole guardian of Music, carefree Zu, is still struggling to be responsible, including a side hustle of drug deliveries for high paying clients.

Her immaturity is set to derail everything, but the building story of family importance and finding your voice through life affirmations becomes apparent.

A grandiose unique experience enhanced by inspired songs through an array of musical interludes, further complimented by the magic of costume designer, Christine Wada.

Sound and vision sweep across the screen in glorious pastels, refinement of dancers showcasing that signature Sia choreography should charm all golden years of Hollywood musical irers.

As a movie analyst I consume, review films on many aspects such as structure, entertainment and conclusive lasting reflections.

Understanding the points put forward, despite controversy surrounding the casting of Maddie Ziegler, a non-autistic girl, acting autistic; well, that’s just it, she’s an actress acting; in my opinion does an exceptional, visceral portrayal of ‘fictional’ character, Music.

Hamilton, star, Leslie Odom Jr. is low key charismatic here.

Kate Hudson riveting with a buzzcut, also manages to be pragmatic in a redemptive role.

Look fast for a cameo by Henry Rollins as a griping neighbour and excellent Juliette Lewis, twenty-two years ago giving an amazing ‘acting’ portrayal of a mentally challenged individual in one of my go-to romantic favourites, The Other Sister (1999).

An emotional rollercoaster, this offbeat, joyous musical journey grabbed my attention. Stay on during end credits for more, extra dry Tig.