The Hollywood biographical drama has significantly evolved over the past decades, shifting from a once formulaic genre to a more sophisticated portrayal of its subjects. This transformation is evident in the focused storytelling approach of recent films like “Capote,” “Lincoln,” and “Oppenheimer,” which hone in on pivotal moments in their characters' lives rather than attempting to cover their entire existence. This method allows for a richer, more textured exploration of the characters' complexities and truths.
"Bob Marley: One Love" is a prime example of this modern biopic approach, focusing on a critical juncture in the life of Bob Marley, the reggae legend. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, known for "King Richard," the film sets its scene in 1976. At this time, Marley, portrayed by Kingsley Ben-Adir, is on the brink of global stardom. He prepares for a peace concert in Kingston, aiming to bridge the deep-seated political divides in Jamaica. However, the island nation is mired in turmoil, its society fractured by post-colonial strife and gang warfare. The tension escalates when Marley and his wife, Rita (played by Lashana Lynch), become direct targets of violence, signaling a turning point for Marley to reconsider his place in Jamaica and the wider world.
The narrative then follows Marley's relocation to London, where he records the seminal album "Exodus." This period serves as a backdrop for exploring the dichotomies within Marley's persona: the political activist and the universal pop icon, the family man with personal failings, and the devout Rastafarian grappling with his father's abandonment. "One Love" attempts to capture Marley's evolution from a national to a transcendent figure, whose message of freedom resonates beyond geographical confines.
However, the film's focus on this narrow time frame means it glosses over Marley's formative years and the rise of reggae music itself. This choice leaves a gap in the portrayal of how Marley's music, influenced by ska, rocksteady, and R&B, came to define a genre and a generation. The film's structure, attributed to multiple writers, comes across as disjointed, lacking a cohesive narrative that fully encapsulates Marley's impact and legacy.
Kingsley Ben-Adir's portrayal of Marley is a highlight, capturing the essence of Marley's spirit and charisma. Through meticulous research, Ben-Adir brings to life Marley's unique presence, from his distinctive patois to his mesmerizing stage performances. Yet, the film's execution does not always do justice to the depth of Marley's character, often veering into hero worship without fully engaging with his complexities.
The movie touches upon various aspects of Marley's life, from his love for soccer to his interactions with the music industry and his neglect of his health. However, these elements feel more like vignettes than parts of a cohesive whole, failing to convey the full significance of Marley's journey.
In essence, "One Love" captures the essence of Bob Marley during a pivotal period but falls short of delivering a comprehensive exploration of his life and legacy. While it succeeds in highlighting the contradictions that defined Marley, the film ultimately feels like an incomplete portrait, offering glimpses of complexity but settling into a more conventional narrative of idolization.
