The Secret Lives of Bill Bartell

Like its subject, The Secret Lives of Bill Bartell is far more than it seems at first glance. Although not well-known outside of LA punk and alternative music circles, the film makes the case that Bill Bartell had a far-reaching influence.

It's fun to watch Bartell as a contrarian young punk in his band White Flag, as his friends tell stories of his antics and behind-the-scenes machinations. The film does a great job of capturing the vibrant, chaotic energy of the '80s punk scene. But it also moves past nostalgia to tell another story: Bartell's complex and often lonely private life. It is poignant and powerful to watch his friends piece together the puzzle of Bill, who never let anyone see the full picture of himself.

Filmmaker David Markey masterfully weaves together the oral histories of Bartell's family and friends, gradually building our understanding of the man, and celebrating the full complexity of his character.

Going into this film, I didn't know anything about Bill Bartell. By the end, he felt like an old friend. It moved me to tears. This film is a deeply heartfelt portrait of a man, his art, the connections that he fostered in his community, and the friends who loved him. It's one of the best films I've seen in years.