It Might Get Loud

Though sporadically bogged down in needless tangents, It Might Get Loud generally comes off as an intriguing (yet entirely forgettable) documentary revolving around three generations of rock guitarists (Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White). Director Davis Guggenheim devotes the bulk of the film’s running time to one-on-one profiles of each of his subjects, with particular emphasis placed on their respective musical influences, their start within the business, and even how they came to own their first guitar. While it seems fairly obvious that fans of the individual performers will find more here to embrace than neophytes, Guggenheim does an effective job of ensuring that the movie remains accessible even for those viewers with a minimal interest in rock music. There’s little doubt, however, that it’s Guggenheim’s decision to bring the three men together for a conversation/jam session that assures It Might Get Loud‘s success, as there’s something inherent fascinating about watching these accomplished musicians casually chat about their craft and even rock out to each other’s songs (ie The Edge leads Page and White in a performance of U2’s “I Will Follow”). And though the remainder of the film has been periodically punctuated with engrossing tidbits, it’s subsequently impossible not to wish that Guggenheim had devoted more screen time to that thoroughly compelling, downright legendary meeting.

**1/2 out of ****