What's Up, Fatlip?

half hour documentary filmed by spike jonze during the making of the music video also called "whats' up, fatlip?". consists of hand-held mini dv footage(or some other poor quality format) of Fatlips' monologues. He is a very charismatic person, who can certainly tell a story. His ex-bandmates say that he really is crazy, and some scenes make you wonder about his sanity, especially being talked into walking around LA in a trench coat and diaper while sipping liquor and mumbling incoherently. Fatlip talks repeatedly about being at the end of his career and the lack of financial success he has had, without sounding too bitter. Which is an interesting side to the music industry I hadn't really thought about, as everyone looks well off on cribs. A personal highlight was him telling the story that inspired his lyrics on 'oh sh!t' off bizarre ride II. a throughly enjoyable disposable documentary.

This film, which documents the plight of a has-been rapper, owes its effectiveness to the utterly charismatic personality of Fatlip. From the first scene, his captivating performance and charm carry the audience, and Jonze is careful not to get in the way of allowing Fatlip's personality to speak for itself. Through the performer's lyrics and on-screen conversations, Jonze provides a revealing look at the rapper's insight into the entertainment industry, his personal life and what he's lost in the process. A profoundly touching and honest look at an endearing performer, "What's Up, Fatlip" is a soulful documentary worth owning.