Bananaz (2008)

Bananaz Poster

A documentary on the cryptic cartoon band, Gorillaz. From 2000-2006 director Ceri Levy filmed the creators behind the scenes, revealing the first drawings, animations and music, and following the evolution of the group through to the album Demon Days.

Introduction
"Bananaz" is a 2008 British documentary film directed by Ceri Levy, centering around the iconic virtual band Gorillaz. This intriguing behind-the-scenes documentary offers a thorough take a look at the conception, development and experience of Gorillaz, offering a view from studio sessions to world tours.

Conception of the Film
The film uses a non-traditional narrative technique, compiling over seven years of raw video footage to record the body and soul of the band. The "Bananaz" name cleverly plays off Gorillaz's theme and brand name, suggesting the borderline chaotic yet creative nature of the experimental group.

Character Description
At the core of the Gorillaz is the collaboration of Damon Albarn, a member of the British rock band Blur and the innovative force behind the music, and Jamie Hewlett, a popular graphic artist known for the comic "Tank Girl" who controls the visual aspect with his special animated characters. The virtual band members 2-D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs are uniquely brought to life throughout the movie.

The Film's Narrative
"Bananaz" checks out the events leading up to the band's worldwide appeal. It reveals Albarn and Hewlett's working relationship and their synergy in connecting music and animation. The documentary also records the recording, composing, and production process of their music, showing the journey from preliminary idea to dedicated execution. It offers audiences insights into Gorillaz's live efficiencies, celeb cooperations, and the bumps came across along the method.
The movie recorded significant shifts in Gorillaz's profession, including the conception and release of their debut self-titled album along with their Grammy-winning 2nd album, "Demon Days".

Effect and Reception
The movie came out as a powerful exploration of Gorillaz's innovative art that effortlessly connects music, visual imagery, and virtual truth. It offered a rarely seen, behind-the-scenes insight into the procedure and obstacles of such a special job. The film was lauded for its intimate and truthful portrayal of Albarn and Hewlett's imaginative process which caused the creation of this virtual band with an unmatched worldwide fandom.

Conclusion
"Bananaz" is a compelling expedition of the journey of Gorillaz, provided through a mix of interviews, backstage video, and animation. It shares the amazing story of how a virtual band, developed as an experimental project, acquired an immense worldwide following. The film works as an inspiration to every artist for its representation of the ultimate accomplishment of skill and imagination.

Top Cast

  • Damon Albarn (small)
    Damon Albarn
    Himself
  • Jamie Hewlett (small)
    Jamie Hewlett
    Himself
  • Nelson De Freitas
    Himself/2D
  • Phil Cornwell (small)
    Phil Cornwell
    Himself/Murdoc
  • Haruka Kuroda (small)
    Haruka Kuroda
    Herself/Noodle
  • Remi Kabaka (small)
    Remi Kabaka
    Himself/Russel
  • Ibrahim Ferrer (small)
    Ibrahim Ferrer
    Himself
  • Dennis Hopper (small)
    Dennis Hopper
    Himself