Unraveling Bastards of Soul: A Review from the Newport Beach Film Festival
October 18th, 2024
Bastards of Soul is a riveting, triumphant documentary that ends too soon. It is a soul-shattering exploration of R&B-soul culture and the promise of new beginnings. The film captures the band's harrowing journey after the tragic death of their frontman, forcing them to face a new, harsh reality. Directed by Paul Levatino, Bastards of Soul presents an introspective look at love and loss, framed as a three-part tribute: a documentary for the band, their legacy, and a new life.
The film tells the powerful story of how the Texas-based band Bastards of Soul was on the verge of success when they tragically lost their frontman, Chadwick Murray, to a rare respiratory illness. The battle for survival began and ended before it even started. In the midst of recording their studio album, the band had yet to realize that an even bigger, more heartbreaking story was unfolding—one that would redefine their future and legacy forever. What should have been their moment of triumph quickly turned into a struggle for meaning, as they grappled with the loss of their leader and the void it left behind.
Levatino, in his directorial debut, navigates the band’s legacy with remarkable sensitivity. He crafts a film that thoughtfully explores every element and perspective, from the band's struggle with grief to their efforts to honor Chadwick's memory. His nuanced approach is a testament to his skill, and it allows the audience to experience the full weight of their loss.
The film captures the earth-shattering confessions and raw emotions of the band members as they process the devastating loss of Murray. In deeply emotional moments, the camera lingers on the tears of the men, showcasing their vulnerability in a way that is rarely seen in public. Men, particularly in the context of rock bands and public figures, often feel pressure to mask their emotions, making these moments all the more powerful. The vulnerability on display highlights the depth of their grief and the toll it took on them as they navigated the aftermath of Chadwick's death.
Chadwick's line, “I'm not going anywhere unless the good Lord forces me to,” carries a powerful weight, especially in the context of his passing. When he originally said it, he was reflecting on the excitement of fatherhood, promising to always be there for his son. At the time, it was a hopeful, joyful sentiment, but in hindsight, it takes on a haunting significance.
Most poignantly, Chadwick left behind a wife and newborn son—a son who will now have the opportunity to look back at his father’s legacy through this beautiful tribute.
Explore the emotional journey behind the acclaimed documentary Bastards of Soul, directed by Paul Levatino, as we honor the late Chadwick Murray, frontman of the electrifying Dallas soul/R&B band. In this exclusive interview with Levatino and producer Max Hartman, discover insights into the creative process, the bond of friendship, and the enduring impact of Murray's legacy on the music world.