Mighty Uke: review
Courier Film Editor Chris Binding discusses Mighty Uke.
‘Mighty’ and Ukulele. Probably two words you haven’t heard in conjunction very often I’m guessing? This stereotype of the ukulele as a comedic novelty and symbol of Hawaii (taking precedence in 1920s popular culture) has damaged both its status as an instrument and consequently the poor souls who wield it as their chosen axe. As an eccentric duo of Canadian documentary filmmakers argue the ukulele is making a comeback, heralded as the return of a true musical underdog. Touring the film in Europe for the last year internationally with ukulele virtuoso James Hill, the film is less a documentary and more of an experience, encouraging viewers to bring along their own ukes for a strum along. More poignantly, the film also immerses the viewer in the startling power, history and intimacy of the instrument, showing the growing sub –culture and enthusiasts who are involved it with a lovable charming vision.
The documentary is incredibly entertaining, with fun and raw indie animation and interviews with a variety of uke players / groups from around the world. From intense shredder and solo concert performer Jake Shimabukuro to the beautiful harmonies and complex group playing of the Langley Ukulele ensemble, the diversity and power of the instrument takes on many different forms. Importantly, stereotypes and stigmas around the instrument are busted. The instrument isn’t technically Hawaiian (being brought to the country by Portuguese settlers), the novelty of the instrument derives purely from American popular culture and the Ukulele is incredibly versatile both as instrument and a means of expression. Evidently there’s a lot of slushy talk about the Uke being the purest instrument to express emotions as one audience member suggested by reading out her daughter’s academic term paper in the post film Q + A ‘This Ukulele speaks the truth: Indie pop and kitsch sensibility’. However, although it’s easy to parody the seemingly eccentric excessive enthusiasm of the films contributors, the film has a far deeper universal message.
As an instrument small and cheap to make, easy to transport and capable of producing sweet melodies with little classical training, the uke is ultimately the peoples instrument, breaking down class boundries in Hawaii with both the King and the working man being able to own and play one. It also has became a distinguishing part of Hawaiian culture, as a device to pass on generational folklore, along with almost spiritual jamming sessions. However, putting all interviews and historical context to the side, the film’s music is incredibly affective, in all its different musical manifestations people speak more pertinently through their instruments than any words can articulate. Am I sounding more and more gnomic and anecdotal? Well, that’s probably because I’ve hopefully fallen in love with the film and appealing sub –culture. A one so appealing in fact that the film made its money back (something unheard of in independent documentary film) along with the breathtaking live post -film acoustic performance from James Hill and Anne Davidson, truly one of those ‘hair on the back of neck moments’. At the films introduction the director stated the film has a tendency to convert guitarists into Uke players, annoyingly I’m now thinking about getting one. Guess travelling around Europe for the last year wasn’t in vain after all. Mighty Uke is a film that will change your perceptions on the instrument, warm the cockles of your heart and leave you with a beaming smile on your face. I couldn’t recommend it any more.
