Austin to Boston

Saturday 18^th October, 9pm – BFI Southbank, NFT1

Sunday 19^th October, 1.30pm – Vue West End, Screen 7

A “damn good time” may have been promised in the world of touring, but watching Austin to Boston sadly didn’t capture the same joyous feeling.

James Marcus Haney’s road trip music documentary tells the story of four bands on tour from Austin to Boston. Artists, such as Brit Award-winner Ben Howard, were filmed as they did a number of shows in America. The film itself is narrated by Gill Landry, whose voice is striking and instantly captivates audiences when the actual film’s plot fails to do so. He effortlessly retells these artists’ adventures across the pond, retelling their rocky journey, full of heavy rainstorms, multiple vehicle breakdowns and cramped conditions. While it was refreshing to see the not-so-glamourous side to the world of music and showbiz, having this as a feature-length movie didn’t excite and at times, lost the momentum quite quickly in places.

One thing that can be said for this film is the stunning musicality that comes with it. Hearing the actual footage of the artists on tour is breathtaking and opens a new wave of listeners for them. The world of music seems to lack strong folk singers, so having a film primarily dominated by this genre allows them to show off their talent. In addition to this, seeing the artists off-stage is truly moving, as they’re genuinely passionate about their jobs and fully engrossed in the touring lifestyle that one can only deem awe-inspiring.

The piece is splendid in terms of cinematography, which is intricate and full: from the stunning scenery and the poignant scene changes and angles throughout the 70-minute musical affair. Yet, while described as “a modern tour, done the old fashioned way”, you can’t help but feel disappointed as the beauty of touring can never truly be captured, unless you are there to experience it for yourself.

Lauren Shean

Austin to Boston release date is yet to be announced.

For further information about the BFI London Film Festival visit here.

Read more reviews from the festival here.

Watch the trailer for Austin to Boston here: