Jarmusch has again succeeded in crafting a cinematic document that stands alone - even if it has been classified as belonging to a limited genre: the rock'n'roll documentary. Using different film formats and videotape, the director creates the impression of an uneven view - at times grungy, at times crystal sharp - that parallels the songwriting of the film's subject. Year of the Horse is a personal, caustic, poignant, raucous, intimate, joyous and always honest portrayal of a band and its leader. It is about survival, it is about being human, and it is about rock and roll. This film is, admittedly, not for everyone; an acceptance of Niel Young's unique approach to self-expression is a prerequisite... so is an acceptance of Jim Jarmusch's non-conformist approach to filmmaking.
Review of Year of the Horse
