The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal

Wow. I assume that most people outside of Canada do not know the band the Tragically Hip. I was first introduced to them by my Canadian cousin back in the 90's. Their music was always a great combination of bangers and beauty. But the lyrics... the lyrics! So stunningly profound and beautiful, but entirely without presence.

This documentary is a love letter to fans everywhere. It reveals the beauty and the artistry that the Hip displayed throughout their career.

As a writer, I am always drawn to the written word. Often I laugh at the words of others. Sometimes I am inspired by what I have read. But with Gord Downie's words I am left feeling amazed and in awe. I often get overwhelmed knowing that what he has made seem so simple, is just genius flowing from a 4 colored pen.

There are no sufficient words to rate this homage, because the only person who could write them has been taken from us too soon.

I consider myself somewhat of a "mans man". Usually keep my emotion close to my chest. There were several times throughout the first 3 parts of this excellently produced docu-series I found myself choking back a few tears. By the end of part four I couldn't hold back any longer. It was a sharp reminder of how important this band was to not only myself - but the country I love.

The director Mike Downie, Gord's brother, captured all the emotion and uniquely Canadian mystique of the Tragically Hip from their humble beginnings gigging in small bars to playing sold out stadiums. Behind the scenes triumphs and tribulations. Watching them evolve artistically and as people. I was fascinated that all this footage was captured and glad that he decided to make this series.

I will be recommending this to anyone who is a fan of music, history and fantastic documentaries.

5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great documentary about a band more people should know about, and even if they aren't your cup of tea, a great story about friends and family and creativity.

From their early days in high school, to the farewell tour that concluded in their hometown of Kingston, this four-part series does a wonderful job telling the story of The Tragically Hip to fans and newbies alike.

The conglomeration of the American music industry has starved us of many international bands and their talent. I was glad to have access to MuchMusic to see the Hip. I encourage you to find the time to watch this documentary and be inspired.

@briz: I hear you. To me it shows that deep deep deep down, there is a person inside JT, or at least there was at some point. And Gord believed in him, believed that he would start the long road of reparations to First Nations people. He has to live every day knowing he is letting down Gord Downie.

He's only in it a bit, don't punish yourself. It's really good! Just take a swig of beer or something at those parts and ignore him.

*******

I started crying 1 minute and 8 seconds in and had to take lots of breaks. Afterwards I watched the entire last concert and dug deeping into the stories behind the songs. I may not have had a productive weekend, but it was worth it.

So well done that I hope people discover this band that may have missed them. I never cried so much my entire a life. It is a beautiful piece of work.

If you are Canadian rock fan, between the ages of 40-55, this if the most important band of your adolescence/early adulthood. This documentary hits at the right notes, tugs on your heart strings. It's so raw and emotional.

If you are a rock fan this is an absolute must see. I think this doc may finally get the hip the profile they deserve outside of Canada.

600 words? Really? What happened to brevity. Nine is going to read 600 words I've written.k. 600+.

Just watch it.