Unassuming. It’s probably the best word to describe Elliott Smith. Whilst his music continues to entrance anew generation of music fans ten years on since his tragic death, the man himself always shunned the limelight. In terms of a celebrity presence there was no ego, but when it came to music it was a different matter. Heaven Adores You is the perfect documentary, paying fitting tribute to one of the greatest songwriters of the last 25 years.
Director Nickolas Dylan Rossi traces Elliott’s life from childhood to his untimely death, using interviews with friends and family, along with archive material. It’s the first official documentary about him, a benefits from access to those who knew him the best. After leaving Texas, Heaven Adores You is broken down into the time spent in Portland, New York and LA, and how those places affected him both mentally and musically.
The interview footage corroborate what we already know about Elliott Smith: That he was a person who hated the limelight and attention. Heaven Adores You also reiterates how dedicated and driven he was about his music; whether that was as part of a band or solo. Nickolas Dylan Rossi adds nothing new for fans, but it’s an understated documentary which feels appropriate to celebrate the life and music of a very special talent, who never wanted to famous.
Heaven Adores You is out in cinemas from Thursday.
