Jelly Roll: Save Me

Jelly Roll has been through the ringer and found his way out of that whitewash. For that alone he deserves credit. His desire to help others climb out of that same hole he was once in, speaks to his nature and is part of what makes the documentary powerful.

Yes, we create our own hells, and Jelly certainly doesn't hide from the fact he knows he created his. But the question is, do we have what it takes to rise up. I'm not sure (by his own admissions) if he is totally free of his demons, but he certainly has the tools and added opportunities success affords to get him all the way there, when or if that's needed.

He has my support as he finds his way, helping others as he goes. And thanks for songs like "Save Me" and "Kill A Man" ... rock on Jelly.

This guy is a real con artist. I can see how people might think he is an inspiration, at first. He doesn't have much to say, just the same old, "Life did me wrong." Quit the 8th or 9th grade, I can't remember which.

I watched another interview with him, in which one of his party buddies does the question asking. Mostly what they talk about is doing acid and getting high and drinking. The saddest part is after listening to him for awhile, he makes things up. When he's asked a question, he has the habit of saying things like, "Oh yeah, I did that, I know about that, or I was going to do that" - classic BS stuff.

The guy is not a hero. If you need a hero, look for a teacher or doctor, not this scam artist. He's laughing, all the way to the bank, at the people he's supposedly portraying. Folks, you're being had and laughed at by this clown and his management company.

Dcoumentary films about musicians have always been self-congratulatory puff-pieces, but now that the corporate grip on commercial music production has closed so completely that it is impossible - rather than just very difficult - to "make it" without being the creation of a media PR machine (I am a musician, and know whereof I speak), a new sub-genre of music doc has emerged: namely transparent attempts to continue peddling the myth that the little guy can still make it big.

This depiction of the man known as Jelly Roll is a virtual apotheosis of this concept: despite being admittedly "too fat and ugly" to be a star (which does actually literally mean that he would never be allowed to be one - this reality cannot be overcome), and a multiple jailbird, drunk, druggie, etc. Etc, he is described as having the most meteoric rise to stardom ever of a musician.

The entire situation is so palpably manufactured and false that it beggars belief. "We released a song on YouTube, and the next day we were performing in stadiums every night." Yeah, right. The PR people can't even be bothered to ensure that the actor playing "Jelly Roll" stays in character throughout: his dialogue is far too sophisticated to be spoken by a 9th-grade drop-out, or whatever he is supposed to be. Even his "good old boy" accent keeps slipping, revealing glimpses of a much more educated way of speaking.

Essentially, then, this film is the next level of the deliberate mocking of musicians at the bottom of the industry food chain (which is the only position that now exists, other than created global phenomenon: there is nothing in-between) by smug company lackeys who have arrogated all power unto themselves, and delight in rubbing everyone else's noses in this fact.

If you "get it" then you can appreciate what it takes to be a human with as much power in them as vulnerability. This is a beautiful story about a gold standard human and his journey. If you think you get it too, you should watch it. The scenes of the crowd at red rocks made tears stream down my face. He is a unicorn and this world is better for him being in it.

If you don't get it, you'll criticize his struggle. You won't value the honesty, integrity, or human bandwidth it takes to get through the things he has. You think this is stupid if you don't know what's important. You think this is stupid if you haven't been through anything that's forced you to come out on the other side better for it.

If people like the first reviewers are who ultimately shaped this man and made him who he is, we should be grateful for them. But man. What a waste of cells on judgmental idiots whose superiority is the only stupidity - they'd rather default to "it's wrong" or "it's bad" than to actually figure it out. If we built up more people like this man, this world would be better place by immeasurable bounds. Love to jelly roll and his people. You saved me too, brother.

"Jelly Roll: Save Me" is a poignant and powerful documentary that delves into the tumultuous life of Jelly Roll, a talented musician who has faced unimaginable hardships. With unflinching honesty, the film chronicles Jelly Roll's journey from his troubled past to his current success.

The documentary masterfully weaves together intimate interviews, striking visuals, and captivating music performances. Jelly Roll's narrative is both heartbreaking and inspiring, showcasing his resilience in the face of adversity.

One of the standout aspects of "Jelly Roll: Save Me" is its authenticity. Jelly Roll's willingness to share his story without sugarcoating is commendable. His vulnerability allows viewers to connect deeply, fostering empathy and understanding.

This documentary serves as a testament to Jelly Roll's transformative journey. His experiences, though marked by struggle, demonstrate the human capacity for growth and redemption.

Some viewers may find certain aspects challenging to watch, but that's the point - "Jelly Roll: Save Me" doesn't shy away from harsh realities. Instead, it presents an honest, uplifting exploration of overcoming adversity.

"Jelly Roll: Save Me" is a masterpiece that transcends traditional music documentaries. It's a powerful exploration of the human spirit, reminding us that redemption is always within reach.

"Jelly Roll: Save Me" deserves acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of Jelly Roll's life. If you're seeking an inspiring story of resilience, look no further.