Though it’s a bit chaotic in structure—it’s chronological but all over the place—The Stones and Brian Jones is a compelling and crucial portrait of The Rolling Stones’ co-founding member and original leader. Jones’ life is typical of rock stars, from the misunderstood childhood and philandering habits to drug dependence and luxurious lifestyle, but director Nick Broomfield tries to paint more nuance into his character. We’re reminded, through interviews with past lovers and even letters from a family that disowned him, that he was also ambitious, insecure, sensitive, affectionate, gentle, and moody. Too often, Broomfield will relish in Jones’ tragedy, when he could’ve focused more on his musical prowess and technical knowledge, but it is overall a fair picture. It’s sympathetic to Jones of course, but Broomfield doesn’t forget to include excerpts from Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, who ‘till now seem to harbor mixed feelings over Jones (he did have Jagger arrested after all). There’s drama and tension and a good deal of great music, which are always fun to watch.
"What the filmmaker really has to offer here is a thesis: he thinks Jones’ rise and fall were essentially determined by his relationship with his parents."
— Godfrey Cheshire
"What struck me, by the end, is how powerfully sad his story was."
— Owen Gleiberman
A look at the relationships and rivalries within The Rolling Stones in their formative years, as well as the creative musical genius of Brian Jones, key to the success of the band.
Using a mix of exclusive interviews and archival footage, Nick Broomfield creates a portrait of The Rolling Stones co-founder and guitarist Brian Jones, who passed away just seven years after the iconic band was formed.
They’re there via short excerpts, but Jagger and Richards’ lack of input feels so heavy here, especially they are and continue to be the face of the band.
Fans of classic rock and the turbulent decade of the ‘60s will find much to like here, but it might be too niche for everyone else.
