"A universal viewing of Bob’s Marley life from 1976 to 1978."

In recent times, cinema has seen a resurgence of biopic’s, particularly centred around musical icons – Freddie Mercury, Elton John and Elvis Presley to name a few, with an Amy Winehouse and Bob Dylan offering also on the horizon, it is no surprise then, that we are now being treated to a biopic of musical legend, Bob Marley. 

It must be said that the common thread present in these biopics is the tendency to lean towards a sanitised portrayal of the star at hand. Some would criticise this move, but what can be expected? 

Particularly when the family of the person as the subject matter at hand is involved in the project – how else would the legacy of someone be described, if not in an at least mostly positive portrayal of them? It is of course important to stay authentic and most of these biopics skim the surface of more controversial aspects of their life or characters, this film being the same.

Set at a very politically charged time in Jamaica’s history, the film’s exposition displays the unrest that led to Bob and Rita Marley, as well as several members of his band and entourage shooting at his own home and the life-changing impact this had on him and his loved ones.

Kingsley Ben-Adir is authentic and captivating in his portrayal of Bob Marley, one can only imagine how daunting a task it is to be asked to take on this role, as an actor. The most refreshing thing about it for me as a spectator were the choices made, it is not an attempt to imitate Bob or the public persona he is known for, but more so an investigative exploration of the man and human being. The same must be said for Lashana Lynch’s portrayal of Rita Marley, also a highly formidable task, yet she comes across as positively genuine and natural in the role. It is a performance which I had not witnessed in a while, one which is at total ease with incorporating the character at play and not overtly trying to perform the character – truly magnetic to watch. Together, their chemistry on screen is really a pleasure to witness throughout the film and captures the innate comfortability of Bob and Rita’s relationship in real life, so often described in this way, by those closest to them.

The musicality present in the film goes without saying - the well-known concerts and musical performances performed by Bob Marley are present in the film and amazingly well performed by the cast. Not to mention, the homely rehearsals and recording of his iconic Exodus album in London. The highlight of these scenes was the ever-present tight knit closeness of Bob Marley, his band and The Wailers and the serenity with which they collaborated and performed with. 

Bob Marley: One Love does what all involved making the biopic probably set out to do – it is viewable by virtually the broadest of audiences making its message of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity loud and clear and it paints a picture of strong, loving and authentic people willing to go the furthest for what they believe in.