Grab your popcorn buckets and buy your movie tickets because the “Bob Marley: One Love” movie has finally been released.
This movie promises audiences an inspirational journey through musical legend Bob Marley’s life from 1976 to 1978.
This new film gains additional significance from the involvement of the Marley family, who served as producers throughout the entire process. Ziggy Marley, Bob’s eldest son, played a pivotal role in casting Ben-Adir as Bob by advising the entire filming journey. He also did interviews as the movie prepared for its release in local theaters.
British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir delivers an incredible performance portraying Bob Marley in this new film. His ability to mimic Marley’s strong Jamaican accent is impressive and nearly impossible to distinguish from the real thing.
Though some of the words and phrases uttered by Ben-Adir were challenging to grasp, they gave the character profound depth, mirroring the sentiments expressed about the authentic Bob Marley himself.
In addition to Ben-Adir’s stellar portrayal, Lashana Lynch shines in her role as Rita Marley, Bob Marley’s devoted wife, and a pivotal figure in his remarkable journey. Lynch’s dedication to her craft extended beyond the screen as she had the privilege of meeting and talking with Rita herself.
Drawing inspiration from their discussions, Lynch brings Rita to life on screen, capturing her essence with authenticity and grace.
Audiences are first introduced to Ben-Adir’s Marley at the age of 31 when he was preparing for the Smile Jamaica Concert. This concert was organized to protest the violence occurring in Jamaica at the time due to the escalating political tensions and social unrest.
Also included in this new film is the making of the iconic “Exodus” album, a seminal work that solidified Marley’s status as a global icon.
Through intimate behind-the-scenes moments, viewers are offered a glimpse into the creative process behind this groundbreaking album, witnessing firsthand passion and dedication that fueled Marley’s artistic vision.
Furthermore, the movie seamlessly weaves in flashbacks to Marley’s earlier years, showing his journey from humble beginnings to international superstardom. From the formation of his band to his growing romance with Rita, the film paints a vivid portrait of the man behind the music, capturing the essence of his humanity and the depth of his soul.
While the film promises a feeling of peace and unity, the film does not shy away from the harsh realities of Marley’s homeland, Jamaica.
In stark contrast to the vibrancy of his music, the movie depicts scenes of violence and unrest, reminding the audience of the challenges Marley faced in his quest for social change. From the pervasive presence of guns to the tensions of political turmoil, these scenes serve as a reflection of the harsh realities of life in Jamaica during that time.
A focal point of the film is Marley’s journey through struggles and triumphs during this difficult period. Despite the pervasive violence in his community and the challenges facing him, his family and his friends, Marley persevered in spreading a message of peace and unity through his music and performances.
Through the exploration of the making of the “Exodus” album, flashbacks to Marley’s early years, and the portrayal of the challenges he faced, the film reminds the audience of the enduring power of Marley’s music and message.
As Ziggy Marley eloquently states in the movie’s opening moments, “His spirit lives on in every note, in every beat, in every word.”
Indeed, in the hearts of all who watch, Bob Marley’s spirit will continue to resonate, spreading his message of love, peace and unity to all corners of the globe.
