Title: The Sparks Brothers
MPAA Rating: R
Director: Edgar Wright
Starring: Ron Mael, Russell Mael, Beck
Runtime: 2 hr 20 mins

What It Is: Sparks has been a band since the mid-’60s. They’re probably your favorite band’s favorite band. In this documentary, we’re introduced to the brotherly duo of Ron and Russell Mael. Ron the highly talented lead singer and Ron a savant on the piano. We are given a career retrospective but as the only director, Edgar Wright could tell it. The ups and down the hits and the misses all spelled out for us in a story unlike any other.

What We Think: This is a wonderful doc. I had no idea who Sparks were before checking this out. I am more then aware of them now. It’s obvious from the jump that Wright is a huge fan of this band. When Edgar Wright is a fan of something his passion and talent tends to permeate his projects, this one is no different. Russell and Ron Mael come off well here as a duo of brothers that simply enjoy being around one and other and love playing music with one and other. Having other musicians there to speak to the bands longevity and influence helps establish what Sparks means to pop culture, especially rock n roll, as a whole.

Our Grade: A-, This film is funny, poignant and gives the world insight into a true musical gem. It breaks the documentary “4th wall” in a way few docs have before. Doesn’t take itself too seriously. Truly a film only Edgar Wright could’ve made. His stamps are all over this. Well directed. Check. Quirky, but not to a fault. Check. Interesting premise with excellent supporting tunes. Check. It’s all there and if you’re a fan of any of his former work, as we are, you’ll love this.