Title: JACO: the Film
Year: 2015
Genre: Documentary, Music
Rating: 7.5
Cast: Bootsy Collins, Flea, Joni Mitchell, Wayne Shorter, Sting
Description: A low hum, a ghost of a bassline, and then—JACO: The Film explodes onto the screen, not with bombast, but with an intimate vulnerability that mirrors its subject. This documentary isn't just a chronicle of Jaco Pastorius's prodigious talent; it's a poignant exploration of genius wrestling with demons. Through archival footage and heartfelt interviews, the film unveils a man of breathtaking artistry, a musical innovator who redefined the bass guitar, yet simultaneously battling inner turmoil and ultimately succumbing to a tragic fate. The sheer power of his music, interwoven with the heartbreaking fragility of his personal life, creates a compelling narrative that transcends the genre. It's a masterclass in filmmaking, a testament to the enduring legacy of a musical giant, and a deeply moving portrait of a complex human being. JACO is not just a film to watch; it's an experience to be felt.