Best Documentaries About Prince
Exploring the Legend of The Purple Pioneer
Prince, the iconic musician and enigmatic performer, profoundly influenced the music industry with his revolutionary artistry and genre-blending sound. His work in the 1980s and beyond broke barriers and redefined the landscape of popular music, melding rock, R&B, funk, and more into a unique sound often referred to as the "Minneapolis Sound".
For those looking to explore the life and legacy of Prince, several documentaries offer a comprehensive look into his extraordinary career. These films capture his rise to global fame, his enigmatic persona, and his groundbreaking contributions to music, providing fans and newcomers alike with a deeper appreciation for the Purple Pioneer.
1) Prince: Sign o' the Times (1987)
Prince: Sign o' the Times captures the essence of Prince as a live performer. This concert film showcases the stunning performances from his 1987 European tour, featuring songs from his double album "Sign o' the Times."
Directed by Prince himself, the film highlights his unique blend of funk, rock, and soul. Each song is a dynamic performance reflecting his artistic range.
The film includes iconic tracks like "U Got the Look," "If I Was Your Girlfriend," and the title track "Sign o' the Times." These performances illustrate his influence on contemporary music.
For fans and newcomers alike, this documentary offers an intimate look at Prince's talent and showmanship. It remains a must-watch for understanding his impact on the music world.
2) Purple Rain
"Purple Rain" is one of the most iconic projects of Prince's career. Released in 1984, this semi-autobiographical film showcased his musical genius. The film intertwined Prince's electrifying performances with a narrative of love, struggle, and triumph.
The accompanying album, also titled "Purple Rain," became a massive success. It featured hit songs like "When Doves Cry" and "Let's Go Crazy." Both the album and film cemented Prince's status as a cultural icon.
The making of "Purple Rain" was not without its challenges. There were tight filming schedules and notable rivalries between cast members. Despite this, the film's popularity continued to soar, driven by its unique storytelling and Prince's unmistakable talent.
Several documentaries delve into the making of "Purple Rain" and its impact. "Purple Rain: Backstage Pass" offers insights into the production process. Another notable piece is "Riffs, Ruffles and a Revolution: The Impact and Influence of Purple Rain," which explores the cultural significance of the film.
Fans and critics alike regard "Purple Rain" as a milestone in music and film. It remains a must-watch for anyone looking to understand Prince's enduring influence on the music industry.
More about Purple Rain on Wikipedia (1984)
3) Prince: The Glory Years
This documentary takes a deep dive into Prince's most iconic decade — the 1980s. It captures his unparalleled creative and commercial output during this period.
Viewers can expect to see insights from key collaborators who shaped and witnessed the "Purple Reign" era firsthand.
The film is packed with live performance and studio footage, rare photographs, and new interviews. It offers a vivid look at Prince’s work and influence during his peak.
Substantial attention is given to Prince's innovative music which helped define the sound of a generation.
For further details, visit the IMDB page.
4) Prince: Last Year of a Legend
"Prince: Last Year of a Legend" (2018) is a compelling documentary directed by Adrian Sibley. This film provides an intimate look at the final year of Prince's life, focusing on significant events and milestones.
The documentary highlights Prince's surprise performance at the White House for the Obamas in June 2015.
It also covers his Rally 4 Peace concert, held in response to the unrest in Baltimore. His Piano and Microphone tour, featuring intimate solo performances, is also featured prominently.
Interviews with friends and fellow musicians add depth to the narrative, offering personal insights.
The documentary concludes with the tragic events leading up to Prince's untimely death in 2016 due to a fentanyl overdose. This film captures the essence of Prince's relentless creativity and his impact on the music world during his final year.
For further information, visit the IMDb page for this documentary.
5) Prince: Rave Un2 the Year 2000 (1999)
"Prince: Rave Un2 the Year 2000" captures a seminal moment in music history. Filmed in December 1999 at Paisley Park Studios, this concert was a special pay-per-view event that aired on New Year's Eve.
The film features Prince performing hits from his album "Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic." Fans also enjoyed classics like "1999," especially poignant as the millennium approached.
Special guests included Morris Day, Lenny Kravitz, and Rosie Gaines, adding extra star power to the night.
The energy and showmanship showcased in "Rave Un2 the Year 2000" demonstrate Prince's exceptional talent and charisma, securing its place as a must-watch for fans.
6) Prince: Slave Trade
"Prince: Slave Trade" (2023) is a documentary directed by Elio Espana.
This film captures the essence of Prince's fierce battle against his record company to reclaim his creative rights.
Prince's fight set a significant precedent for artists in the music industry.
It dives into his struggles and triumphs, showing his resilience and determination to maintain artistic freedom.
The documentary highlights how Prince's stance reshaped the relationship between artists and record labels, inspiring many in his wake.
For more information on "Prince: Slave Trade" (2023), visit IMDb.
7) Prince: Live at the Aladdin Las Vegas (2003)
"Prince: Live at the Aladdin Las Vegas" captures a monumental performance by Prince at the Aladdin Theatre for the Performing Arts. The concert, recorded on December 15, 2002, showcases Prince's dynamic stage presence and exceptional musicianship. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate live music and Prince’s unique entertainment style.
This film includes several notable cover songs, an unreleased track, and highlights from Prince’s less frequently performed catalog. Special appearances by former bandmates Sheila E. and Eric Leeds add to the concert's appeal, making it a treat for long-time fans and new listeners alike.
The DVD release in 2003 provided fans with a high-quality recording of this unforgettable night in Las Vegas. It is an essential part of any thorough exploration of Prince’s live performances and his ability to captivate an audience.
For more information on "Prince: Live at the Aladdin Las Vegas," visit Wikipedia.
8) Prince: The Hits Collection
"Prince: The Hits Collection" (1993) is a notable documentary that encapsulates the musical journey of Prince through some of his most iconic songs. This documentary highlights his ability to blend various genres seamlessly, showcasing his versatility and innovation in the music industry.
The film features performances and music videos of hits like "When Doves Cry," "Kiss," and "Raspberry Beret." These tracks illustrate Prince's unique style and his impact on both the charts and pop culture.
Released in the early 1990s, this collection served to summarize Prince's career up to that point. It provides a window into his creative evolution and his influence on contemporary music.
The inclusion of both live performances and music videos gives viewers a comprehensive look at Prince's artistry. His on-stage charisma and distinctive visual style are evident throughout the documentary.
For more details, you can visit the Wikipedia page on Prince: The Hits Collection.
This documentary remains a pivotal resource for fans and newcomers alike, offering a condensed yet rich exploration of Prince's prolific output during his peak years.
9) Prince: Live in Concert
"Prince: Live in Concert (2015)" captures the electrifying essence of Prince's stage presence. This documentary showcases several of his most memorable performances, reflecting his mastery of live music and connection with the audience.
From his explosive guitar solos to his powerful vocal range, Prince's live shows were legendary. Each performance delivers energy and charisma, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
The film includes footage from various concerts, highlighting different phases of his career. Notably, his performances from the Purple Rain tour stand out for their intensity and emotion.
For more details on "Prince: Live in Concert", visit IMDB.
10) Prince: Under the Cherry Moon (1986)
Prince's film "Under the Cherry Moon" stands as a significant part of his cinematic legacy. Released in 1986, this black-and-white musical drama showcased Prince's talents not only as a musician but also as a director and actor. The film tells the story of a gigolo named Christopher Tracy, played by Prince, who seeks fortune through wealthy women.
The movie diverged from the success of "Purple Rain" in terms of both style and reception. Set in the French Riviera, its lush and romantic backdrop highlighted Prince's flair for visual storytelling. Although it did not achieve commercial success, it remains a cult favorite among Prince enthusiasts who appreciate its unique artistic vision.
"Under the Cherry Moon" received mixed reviews from critics, with particular praise for its cinematography and Prince’s charismatic performance. The film also features an accompanying soundtrack album, "Parade," which includes the hit single "Kiss." This soundtrack helped bolster the movie’s enduring relevance in Prince's extensive catalog.
Fans of Prince looking to explore his more unconventional and daring projects should consider viewing "Under the Cherry Moon." It offers a glimpse into his multifaceted artistry and highlights his willingness to take creative risks.
For more information on "Under the Cherry Moon," visit the IMDb page.
Influence and Legacy
Prince's contributions to music and culture are vast. His innovative fusion of genres and trailblazing moves in the music industry have left an enduring impact.
Impact on Music
Prince revolutionized the music world with his distinctive sound, blending rock, R&B, funk, and pop. His influence is evident in his iconic hits like "Purple Rain," "1999," and "When Doves Cry." These songs pushed boundaries and set new standards.
He also used innovative recording techniques and unique production styles. His battle for artistic control, exemplified by his fight against his record label, set a precedent for future artists. The Minneapolis Sound that he helped pioneer continues to inspire musicians today.
Cultural Contributions
Beyond his musical genius, Prince made significant contributions to popular culture. He broke racial barriers and reshaped perceptions of Black music, influencing countless artists and performers across genres.
Prince's bold fashion choices and androgynous style challenged societal norms. He was a powerful advocate for freedom of expression and identity. His activism for artist rights empowered musicians to take control of their work and careers.
These cultural shifts paved the way for future generations, cementing his status as an iconic figure in music and culture.
Critical Reception
Prince was widely praised not only for his musical genius but also for his compelling on-screen presence and the captivating storytelling presented in documentaries about his life. Each documentary received its share of accolades and critical evaluations.
Acclaim and Awards
The documentary "Prince: A Purple Reign" (2017) gained notable acclaim for its in-depth exploration of Prince's career. Its meticulous detailing earned various awards at film festivals, highlighting its successful portrayal of the artist's legacy.
Another well-received film was "Purple Reign: The Life, Music and Legacy of Prince," which garnered praise for its comprehensive coverage of Prince's diverse talents. It secured several accolades, showcasing the profound impact Prince had on the music world.
Reviews and Critiques
Critics were largely appreciative of the documentaries, praising their thorough research and engaging storytelling. "Prince: A Purple Reign" was applauded for its cinematic quality and insightful interviews, drawing viewers into the enigmatic life of Prince.
Some reviewers noted that while "Purple Reign: The Life, Music and Legacy of Prince" excelled in showcasing rare footage, it occasionally missed emotional depth in certain segments. Despite minor critiques, these films are considered essential viewing for fans and music historians.
