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The unsung artists – choreographers, video directors, stage designers – behind the world’s biggest music stars.
Genre: Documentary, Short, Music
Main Cast: Brian Nicholson, Andrew Watt, Gabriel Fraboni, Jasmine Benjamin
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1 season, 6 episodes
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Golden: The Journey of USA’s Elite Gymnasts (2021)
8.6 / 10 (based on 114 reviews)
Follows top American gymnasts, Olympic gold medalists as they compete for the four coveted Team USA roster spots in the Olympic team competition.
Genre: Documentary, Sport
Main Cast: Laurie Hernandez, MyKayla Skinner, Sunisa Lee, Morgan Hurd
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1 season, 6 episodes
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6.6 / 10 (based on 1084 reviews)
The residents of a small town grapple with the ruthless killing of a young girl and a teacher.
Genre: Short, Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Chosen Jacobs, Sophie Thatcher, Ben Ahlers, Nnamdi Asomugha
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1 season, 11 episodes
Sex Next Door (2020)
5.6 / 10 (based on 109 reviews)
A documentary on Quibi about sex workers in Seattle.
Genre: Documentary
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1 season, 8 episodes
“Music” (2020) is a film directed by Sia, marking her directorial debut. This movie stirred quite a bit of attention and controversy upon its release. It’s a musical drama that explores the world of Zu, played by Kate Hudson, a newly sober drug dealer who becomes the guardian of her half-sister, Music, a young girl on the autism spectrum portrayed by Maddie Ziegler. The film aims to weave a narrative that’s both a visual spectacle and an emotional journey, using musical numbers to delve into Music’s perception of the world.
The Premise
At its core, “Music” is a story about connection, challenges, and the transformative power of care. Zu, grappling with her own demons and responsibilities, finds herself in a position she’s ill-prepared for. Music, on the other hand, lives in a richly detailed world of her own imagination, one that the film attempts to bring to life through elaborate dance sequences and vibrant visuals. The juxtaposition of their realities sets the stage for a narrative filled with potential growth, understanding, and healing.
The Cast
- Kate Hudson as Zu provides a gritty and grounded performance, embodying a character at the edge of her own self-destruction, yet forced to find strength in her new role as a caretaker.
- Maddie Ziegler as Music has faced significant scrutiny for her portrayal of an autistic character. Ziegler, known for her work with Sia in music videos, steps into a role that demanded a delicate balance of expression and representation.
- Leslie Odom Jr. plays Ebo, a neighbor with a complex past of his own, who becomes an essential support system for Zu and Music. His character adds depth and a sense of community to the narrative.
The Controversy
The film’s release was met with a wave of criticism, particularly regarding the casting of Maddie Ziegler as an autistic character. Critics and advocates within the autism community expressed disappointment and anger over the decision not to cast an autistic actor in the role. This sparked a broader conversation about representation, authenticity, and the responsibilities of filmmakers when portraying marginalized communities.
Sia’s response to the criticism added fuel to the fire. Her initial defensive stance and the manner in which she engaged with critics on social media were seen by many as dismissive and insensitive. This controversy overshadowed the film’s release, impacting its reception and sparking debates about inclusion and representation in the entertainment industry.
The Music and Choreography
Despite the controversy, “Music” is undeniably a visual and auditory spectacle. Sia, known for her unique approach to music and visuals, brings her signature style to the film. The musical numbers are vibrant, filled with color, emotion, and elaborate choreography. These sequences aim to provide insight into Music’s inner world, offering a stark contrast to the film’s more grounded, real-world scenes.
The choreography, led by frequent Sia collaborator Ryan Heffington, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between Music’s imagination and her reality. The dance sequences are expressive and often abstract, aiming to evoke emotions and tell a story without words.
The Reception
The reception of “Music” was mixed. On one hand, some praised the film for its ambition, visual flair, and the performances of its leads. On the other hand, the controversy regarding representation and the portrayal of autism significantly impacted public and critical perception.
Critics pointed out that beyond the casting controversy, the film’s depiction of autism relied on stereotypes and inaccuracies, potentially contributing to misunderstanding and stigma rather than empathy and awareness. The narrative’s focus on Zu’s journey, rather than Music’s, was also a point of contention, with some feeling that it sidelined the character who should have been at the heart of the story.
Final Thoughts
“Music” is a film that, for better or worse, sparked conversation. Its ambitious attempt to blend the musical genre with a narrative about autism and caregiving was overshadowed by controversy and criticism. The discussions it prompted about representation, authenticity, and the portrayal of disabled characters in media are essential. These conversations push the industry towards more inclusive and respectful storytelling practices.
While “Music” may not have achieved everything it set out to do, it serves as a learning opportunity for filmmakers, audiences, and advocates alike. The importance of listening to marginalized communities, the need for authentic representation, and the power of responsible storytelling are lessons that extend far beyond this film.
In the end, “Music” is a reminder of the complexities of storytelling in the modern world. It’s a call to action for creators to engage more deeply with the communities they wish to portray, to listen more than they speak, and to approach sensitive subjects with humility and respect.