Now More Than Ever: The History of Chicago

First half of this documentary was interesting, informative and offers viewers a great deal of background info using unique film techniques that worked really well.

In the FIRST HALF of the film interviews with the band members were honest and provided thought provoking context for the various story lines.

However viewers should keep in mind that this documentary was produced by the band and its founding members...

So we only get one perspective.

The one the band wanted us to see and hear.

The result is a great deal of score settling in the second half of the documentary that goes unchallenged.

The lone exception was Drummer Danny Seraphine who deserves high praise for his openness and honesty throughout.

Bottom line...Impartial or objective are not terms to associate with this film.

BUT Having said all that, The first half is a great watch.

I was happy for the forthrightness of all those who participated in this. Sad that Donnie Dacus, Bill Champlin, and Peter Cetera decided not to be part of it. I think their honest recollections and opinions would have been portrayed (the guys don't hold back on talking about reckless behavior and squabbles, and David Foster's ego is not tempered one bit). The best part was the proper due given to Chris Pinnick. I did not know his tenure lasted beyond the making of the 14th album. Great. But not a word - not one single word - about Laudir de Oliveira. He was a fulltime band member from '75 to '82, and even participated in the studio for a couple of years before attaining that status. Sad to say he passed away about six months ago, only the second Chicago member to be gone. I know there's only so much time in a documentary, and only so many things to be covered, but come on - he was a full-on band mate and should have his due.

I wish someone would make a real documentary about this band. This so-called documentary, that originally ran on CNN, was directed and edited by Peter Pardini, whose uncle Lou Pardini has been a member of Chicago since 2009. Not exactly the independent journalistic standard I'd want from a documentary. It's difficult enough to trust documentaries when they're made by people who are independent from the documentary's subject, but a documentary by a band member's nephew is not a documentary. And they buried the fact that it was made by a band member's nephew. CNN should've known journalistic standards dictate that information be presented right up front in bold letters. Don't get me wrong, it was enjoyable, but it's not trustworthy.

I can see where some of those familiar with the history of the band Chicago might take issue with how the documentary was presented. While most of the documentary seemed reasonably accurate, there were a few of the stories that didn't seem to jibe with what I remember. Specifically the departure of drummer Danny Seraphine.

For those unfamiliar with Chicago, this documentary is useful for bringing those viewers up to speed. From their beginning to their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, viewers are able to get an idea how the band has evolved over the last 50 years.

I would highly recommend this documentary to anyone who wants to know who the band Chicago is.

Caveat. I'm watching a movie about a rock / jazz - band / ensemble for the music. You get a lot of real Chicago music in this documentary. Perfect. So you have to sift through the back story and the requisite infighting amongst band members and, of course, being ripped off by the first producer / promoter ... Whatever. The music of this band is magnifique. Enjoy.