In “George Michael: Freedom Uncut,” the late pop legend George Michael finally gets the theatrical release he deserves. This extended cut of his self-co-directed TV documentary, completed just before his untimely death on Christmas Day 2016, offers new material, including additional footage from the iconic ‘Freedom! ’90’ music-video shoot.
A Master of Career Curation
George Michael was a master at shaping his own career trajectory. From orchestrating Wham!’s grand farewell with ‘The Final’ concert in 1986 to strategically launching his solo career with the timeless hit ‘Careless Whisper’ in 1984, Michael had a keen sense of his artistic direction. This inclination for curation is evident in “George Michael: Freedom Uncut,” even in its uncut form. The documentary, while candid and confessional, still leaves viewers with a sense that they have not fully glimpsed the complex character behind the megastar.
Glitzy Talking Heads and Musical Bookends
Throughout the film, intimate moments are juxtaposed with contributions from glitzy talking heads, such as Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Naomi Campbell, and surprisingly, Liam Gallagher. While these testimonials highlight Michael’s professional prowess, they don’t delve deep into the man behind the music. Additionally, the documentary’s musical bookends featuring Adele and Chris Martin covering ‘Fastlove’ and ‘A Different Corner’ feel somewhat redundant in retrospect, as they were fitting tributes at the time but may now leave viewers yearning for more of Michael’s own performances.
A Precious Tribute to a Music Legend
Despite its flaws, “George Michael: Freedom Uncut” remains a candid and touching tribute to the music legend, who battled self-doubt even as he conquered the pop world. The film traces his journey from a geeky Bushey schoolboy to an international icon in a linear narrative akin to a written autobiography. The stylistic use of Michael typing out each chapter on a typewriter in his Highgate home adds a poignant touch, emphasizing the documentary’s personal nature.
An Ever-Growing Legacy
While the film may not offer deep insights due to a fair amount of self-editing, it still serves as a poignant document of a remarkable songwriter and singer. As the years pass, George Michael’s legacy becomes even more apparent, and this documentary becomes a must-watch for his devoted fans, cherishing his memory and the impact of his music on generations.