In “This Much I Know To Be True,” filmmaker Andrew Dominik teams up once again with the iconic Nick Cave to deliver a transcendent music documentary and concert film. Building on the success of their previous collaboration, “One More Time With Feeling,” this latest project combines live performances from Cave’s 2019 album “Ghosteen” with the lockdown-inspired masterpiece “Carnage,” created in collaboration with Warren Ellis. The film not only showcases breathtaking musical performances but also delves into the unique friendship and creative partnership between Cave and Ellis.
A Beacon of Light Amidst Grief and Pandemic
Coming just days after the unexpected loss of Cave’s son Jethro Lazenby, “This Much I Know To Be True” resonates even more deeply, offering warmth and solace to both the artist and the audience. Through mesmerizing performances and thoughtful interviews, the film manages to capture the light at the end of the tunnel, transcending grief, isolation, and the challenges of the pandemic.
Enchanting Musical Performances
The heart of the film lies in the captivating musical performances. Dominik takes us on a journey inside a high-walled warehouse, creating an intimate setting illuminated by beatific light. With a minimalist stage and inventive camera work, we are treated to front-row seats to witness the ethereal rock that Cave and Ellis conjure. The circular dolly-track movement of the cameras adds to the hypnotic effect, while bright, dancing lights visually manifest the spirits evoked by their music.
The director of photography, Robbie Ryan, deserves praise for his skillful use of aspect-ratio shifts and evocative framing, which evoke awe and intimacy simultaneously. Whether swirling euphorically around the anthemic ‘Ghosteen Speaks’ or drawing in close for Cave’s fragile falsetto on ‘Hollywood,’ the camera work allows Cave’s magnetic presence to hold the audience in awe.
Intimate Insights into the Minds of Artists
Interwoven with the musical performances are candid interviews with Cave and Ellis, offering an intimate look into their creative minds. Cave shares haunting ceramic sculptures he crafted during lockdown, symbolizing Satan’s life, death, and forgiveness. The depth of his introspection and profound wisdom show a man at peace with life’s chaos and his own losses.
In contrast, Ellis’ chaotic persona shines through in the glimpses of his messy flat and cluttered workspace. Dominik captures these revealing moments, providing insight into the enigmatic artist behind the angelic voice and brilliant musicianship that Cave admires.
A Triumphant Message of Hope
The film reaches a climax with a triumphant rendition of ‘Balcony Man,’ a quarantine ballad that leaves a resonant message of hope. With golden light shining on Cave and his collaborators, the artist sings jubilantly about the amazing morning and the hope that lies ahead. Having witnessed Cave’s journey through darkness and with the world facing its own trials, the parting message is one of profound hope and optimism to carry forward in these uncertain times.
A Masterpiece in Music Filmmaking
With “This Much I Know To Be True,” Dominik, Cave, and Ellis have crafted another masterpiece in music filmmaking. The film is musically sublime, visually mesmerizing, and emotionally profound. It not only captures the essence of Cave’s transcendent music but also celebrates the unique bond between artists and the profound impact of their creative collaboration. A beacon of light amidst darkness, this film is a must-watch for music enthusiasts and seekers of inspiration alike.
