What’s It About
The film will reportedly be an amalgamation of the creation of Renaissance (2022), Beyoncé’s seventh studio album; the record’s accompanying visual album; and the recorded footage from the Renaissance World Tour and its development.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
In this epic documentary of Beyoncé’s latest concert tour, she’s like this incredible force of nature. Over almost three hours, she transforms from a radiant goddess to an Afrofuturist cyborg and then a seductive, ferocious vixen. Beyoncé connects with her adoring fans, creating a safe space while grinding and growling, inspiring everyone to do the same. She’s the ultimate woman, and she nails every mood while belting out hit after hit and showcasing killer dance moves. It’s not just about the music, though. Beyoncé, now in her 40s, embraces the liberating joy of not caring about what people think. The film takes us behind the scenes, showing her rehearsing with backup dancers, spending downtime with Jay-Z and their kids, and even revisiting her Houston roots. But make no mistake, she’s still all about perfection. “Renaissance,” written and directed by Beyoncé herself, reveals her quest for excellence, diving into the nitty-gritty details of the tour and the film about it. Unlike other concert films, “Renaissance” goes beyond the stage. It gives us glimpses of Beyoncé’s personal life and the complexity of creating a massive production. There’s a sense of intimacy, especially in black-and-white scenes reminiscent of Madonna’s “Truth or Dare.” The film also highlights Beyoncé’s generosity, acknowledging and appreciating everyone from drivers to stylists. And let’s talk fashion. The film is a feast for the eyes, showcasing wildly inspired costumes from renowned designers. Beyoncé stuns in everything from colorful bodysuits to neon green hooded gowns. But it’s not just about her beauty; the film focuses on the audience, emphasizing the powerful sense of community among Beyoncé’s fans, the Beyhive. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the film touches on Beyoncé’s status as a queer icon. It pays tribute to her late Uncle Johnny, a gay Black man who influenced her love for fashion and house music. And, of course, there’s the music, ranging from classics like “Crazy in Love” to recent hits with cameos from Megan Thee Stallion and Kendrick Lamar. At almost three hours, “Renaissance” can be exhausting, but it’s never enough for superfans. Yet, there’s a surprising emotional moment with Beyoncé’s 11-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, dancing on stage. Blue worked hard for her spot, and at that moment, Beyoncé burst with pride like any proud mom. Now, the film takes a unique turn with a technical malfunction during the performance of “Alien Superstar.” Instead of panicking, the crew turns it into a moment of tension and euphoric release, showcasing Beyoncé’s ability to turn lemons into lemonade. “Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé” is not just a concert film; it’s a self-portrait of an artist embracing her flaws, improving, and passing on wisdom at home and on the stage. Beyoncé, in her 40s, is still an influential force, and this film is a testament to her recent achievements and enduring impact on the music scene.
OUR RATING – A BEE-HIVE 9