It's About You (2010)
*** (out of 4)
Interesting documentary of John Mellencamp on his 2009 co-headlining tour with Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. Those expecting to see the three together might be disappointed as this here is all Mellencamp but it does offer us an interesting look at him not only touring but also recording his album No Better Than This. This documentary is currently being shown on Mellencamp's "No Better Than This" tour as pretty much the opening act. I went to the 11/13/11 Louisville, KY show at the Palace wondering why we'd see a documentary before the actual concert and I was surprised at how well it worked. The documentary features several songs that you're going to be hearing in the actual show but they performance of the concert was so good that it really doesn't damage you by seeing them in this film. If you happen to come across this outside of the concert then you're in for a good time. There's not too much actual footage of Mellencamp speaking to the camera as the only time we really get to hear him talk is during a couple moments in between recording songs. The film does a very good job at trying to explain why Mellencamp is done with the pop albums and why this project was so personal to him. It also gives us a chance to see some rather famous recording sites where the singer/songwriter recorded them. I got to see Mellencamp a couple times during this 2009 tour including the Dayton, OH show where he first sang "Save Some Time to Dream" and there's no question he keeps getting better. The documentary lasts just under an hour and was shot on Super 8, which really gives it an original look. There's no question that there's a political message behind the picture but nothing that's going to beat you over the head or preach. Fans of Mellencamp should certainly show up at the concerts early to see the picture. Of course, it can't compare to the masterpiece that's the actual show.
