Directed by David Chase
Starring John Magaro, Jack Huston
Writer-director David Chase, best known for creating the hit TV show The Sopranos, finally makes his foray into feature films with a disappointingly bland effort in Not Fade Away.
Set in suburban New Jersey in the 60s, the film relies heavily on the rock music of the era as a thematic backdrop while following the exploits of band mates Douglas (Magaro) and Eugene (Huston) as they hope to move from garage status to the upper echelon of rock n roll. The movie is dreary at times, coupled with doses of strangely placed comedic elements, thus making the whole piece drift aimlessly without a purpose.
To make matters worse the cast is full of unlikeables and, with the exception of James Gandolfini as Douglas father, never convey any authentic presence in the picture. Some credit should also be given to Bella Heathcote, who serves as the romantic interest for a couple band members, as she does her best in an underused role.The movie has some redeeming qualities though; thanks to music supervision by the legendary Steven Van Zandt, the tunes add real verve to the film and the look is unmistakably 60s, right down to the last detail.
Unfortunately, all this is nearly derailed by a ham-fisted ending that literally spells out the underlying message in a terribly awkward final scene.Despite some clever musical cues and a downright gritty take on adolescence, Not Fade Away gets lost in a sea of forgettable performances, messy writing and a meandering plot.
