Chuck Berry: The Original King of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Chuck Berry: The Original King of Rock ‘n’ Roll begins in unorthodox fashion for a documentary, opening on a couple of actors reenacting actual high and low points from the musician’s storied life. These short, predominantly B&W segments are utilized throughout the film as smartly placed segues, and though lovers of traditional documentaries may find them annoying, I found them revelatory.

However, the traditionalists shouldn’t fret, for there’s plenty of hardy, nitty-gritty roots. Director Jon Brewer successfully captures all of the moods, twists, answers, mysteries and lessons one would expect of such a notable subject of 20th century U.S. history — brilliantly and tragically presenting Charles Edward Anderson Berry as a man who not only broke the law at times but breached color codes and lines as well.

Throughout the film, viewers are expertly schooled on the fundamentals of survival, both inside and outside of the music business. The ever-present duality of man is notably represented — especially the difference between Chuck Berry the rock star and Charles the family man.

The list of interviewees ranges from Keith Richards, Gary Clark Jr. and Berry’s wife and children to record-industry executives and plenty of other figures. Berry’s childhood is also explored and alluded to lightly, in contrast to his teenage and influential early adult years. All told, the film is an interesting undertaking that has great potential to engage many generations, and certainly not merely Berry’s fans.

Available to rent starting Sept. 18 via grailmoviehouse.com