The White Stripes
Under The Great White Northern Lights
If you “love” The White Stripes then you should see Emmett Malloy’s new documentary, which covers their 2007 Canadian tour that took the band through every providence in the Northern Territories. If you just happen to simply just “like” The White Stripes, then you should definitely take two hours to educate yourself with a viewing of Under Great White Northern Lights.
This is no clichéd “roc doc”. There are no drugs, no groupies, and no TV’s thrown out of the windows of expensive hotel rooms. Instead Mr. Malloy uses mostly high contrast 16mm film to show The Stripes’ for what they really are…a kick ass band! The sound explodes off the screen as the band is filmed performing not only in large venues, but also in accompanying side shows. Jack and Meg play in bowling alleys, on boats, in bars, and in town squares. Malloy gives you not only an amazing vision that highlight’s Jack White’s masterful guitar playing and Meg White’s precisely passionate drumming, but he weaves in intimate exchange between the famous duo and the regular folks that inhabit the small Canadian towns they ramble through.
Those fascinated by the creative process will enjoy when Jack talks about his creative philosophy of the band that reveals a simple concept of constriction. Color schemes, instruments, etc. have all stayed the same since the beginning. Overall this film is a fantastic message that illustrates what all bands should strive for. After 10 years together they still rock, they still have love for their fans, and their fans still show up in droves.
Dear music business, take notice, this is how it’s done. Go on the road, make music, convert the masses, and build a culture. The White Stripes show us that they have a TRUE following. “Under Great White Northern Lights” tells a great story that I hope will continue on for another 10 years and beyond. As the film concludes we are treated to a final moving moment between Jack and Meg that is sure to illustrate the bond that this band has and will continue to have forever.
After this film was made, it should be noted that The White Stripes cancelled their fall tour. Perhaps they should sit through this film and take a look at themselves. It’s filled with more than enough love and beauty to hold them together forever.
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