REVIEW: Leonard Cohen documentary offers glimpse into mind of the master
Leonard Cohen, who died in 2016, will be remembered for his lyrical mastery, poetic recitations and thoughtful brand of folk music. He was an original, someone who could turn a phrase and ensure deeper introspection on a romance.
Leonard Cohen: Bird on a Wire is the remarkably intimate and all-access documentary from director Tony Palmer. Originally produced in 1972, the film has undergone a few revamps and was thought to be a long-lost classic. Film Forum presents a theatrical cut of the documentary through Tuesday, Jan. 31.
The film follows Cohen on a successful tour of Europe and Israel. Audiences can see Cohen in a variety of settings, either on stage, in his greenroom or on the tour bus. The singer needs to answer a host of questions from inquiring journalists and sign autographs from adulating fans. Throughout the genuine hoopla of his concerts, Cohen almost fades into the background. He’s soft spoken and unwilling to compromise his artistic skills. If he’s not feeling it during a concert, he’ll apologize to the audience and head backstage to meditate. If someone wants a refund, he’s glad to hand over some money from his own pocket.
These behind-the-scenes glimpses allow longtime Cohen fans to see the man behind the music, the poet behind the poetry. The on-stage singing allows any viewer — Cohen disciple or not — to see how well he could work a crowd and command their respect through his timeless songs.
Cohen’s singing style is similar to Bob Dylan’s. He’s revered for his lyrical power more than his vocal prowess. Later in life, Cohen’s voice would grow gravely and deeper, allowing for some interesting sounds on memorable tunes.
The audio throughout the documentary is surprisingly of a high quality. All of Cohen’s lyrics can be heard and understood, which is key for this type of music. Kudos to Palmer for his obvious dedication to filming anywhere and everywhere throughout the tour (the camera even rolls when Cohen and his band take showers). The director uses the cinéma vérité approach much like D.A. Pennebaker did in his Dylan exposé, Don’t Look Back.
There are some tense moments in the 105-minute film. If Cohen decides to halt a performance, the crowd can grow agitated. If Cohen refuses another encore, the crowd can grow disappointed. If the sound system isn’t working and the concert is canceled, a couple people in the crowd march to his greenroom demanding refunds.
Cohen fits the bill for a performer who didn’t need to give the public anything more than his songs. The fact that he talked with journalists almost seems antithetical to his art. Dylan certainly is reclusive in that manner, but Cohen tries to honestly answer each query sent his way. He’ll never give the PR response; that would have been too easy.
Most of all, Leonard Cohen: Bird on a Wire accurately depicts Cohen as a good man, someone who is usually a few seconds away from a smile and always caring about the people around him. Cigarette in hand, Cohen is an original, and this documentary proves it.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Leonard Cohen: Bird on a Wire (1972), directed by Tony Palmer, is currently playing the Film Forum in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets. Rating: 
