Broken English: Three Songs by Marianne Faithfull
Broken English: Three Songs by Marianne Faithfull

Movie spotlight

Broken English: Three Songs by Marianne Faithfull

1979
Movie
12 min
English

12 minute short film for 'Broken English' directed by Derek Jarman, comprised of “Witches Song”, “The Ballad of Lucy Jordan” and “Broken English”. Part of the “The Dream Machine” vignette (1983).

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Don LettsGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This short musical documentary captures Marianne Faithfull performing three songs: 'Broken English', 'Why D'you Do It?', and 'Guilty'. The film is notable for its raw energy and Faithfull's powerful vocal delivery, showcasing her resilience and artistic evolution during a pivotal moment in her career. It offers a glimpse into her uncompromising artistic vision.

Critical Reception

As a short musical piece, 'Broken English: Three Songs by Marianne Faithfull' did not receive traditional critical reviews. However, it is recognized as an important artifact of Faithfull's comeback and her embrace of a more challenging, punk-influenced sound. Its impact is primarily within fan circles and music history as a document of her artistic reinvention.

What Reviewers Say

  • Captures Marianne Faithfull's raw, powerful performance.

  • Highlights her artistic rebirth with a darker, edgier sound.

  • An essential watch for fans documenting a significant career moment.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific short film is not readily available. However, Marianne Faithfull's 'Broken English' album from which these songs are taken was critically acclaimed for its maturity and raw emotion.

Fun Fact

The song 'Broken English' itself is a cover of a John Lennon song, but Faithfull's rendition, with its socio-political undertones and stark production, became her signature track and a significant comeback for her career.

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