Ten years after her Janis Joplin biographical documentary, Janis: Little Girl Blue, director Amy Berg ventures back into the music world with It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley. This is a passionate tribute to another raw talent whose life was tragically cut short, leaving a profound influence in his wake. Every Jeff Buckley fan has their favorite track; Berg's preference seems to be his acclaimed interpretation of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah", Buckley's only song to reach No. 1 on a Billboard chart in 2008, 11 years after his untimely death.
The film portrays Jeff Buckley as a compelling subject with a captivating four-octave vocal range. Frequently presented in archival interviews throughout the film, Buckley's performances and his various musical influences - ranging from Judy Garland to Soundgarden - are the high points of the documentary. Despite its commendable aspects, seasoned Buckley fans might find little that is new or revealing in this portrait.
The documentary traces Buckley’s early career, beginning from his impromptu performances at East Village’s dive Sin-é, which eventually garnered the attention of record companies. A noteworthy point in his career was his tribute performance to his father, Tim Buckley, at a star-studded concert in 1991. Much of the film focuses on his complex relationship with his late father, a fellow musician.
Amy Berg attempts to set aside parallels between the tragic deaths of Tim and Jeff Buckley. Instead, the film seeks to emphasise Jeff's love for music and personal relationships. Notable contributions come from his mother, Mary Guilbert, and his former girlfriends, particularly an interview with Rebecca Moore, which serves as a touching part of the narrative.
The documentary, packed with countless rare footage, will be a treasure for Buckley's fans, despite potential criticism about the authorised portrayal of the rock legend. It’s Never Over may not be the comprehensive biography some were expecting, but it offers an affectionate commemoration crafted with significant sincerity.
