The Last Dispatch is not a music documentary that you have ever seen before. This is more than the story of a band- it is an interesting look at the role of music in contemporary youth culture. The film examines many of the dominant issues in today's music industry- from the Napster revolution to the role that music can play in politics. More than anything, though, this is a universal story- about the importance of the relationship between music and people. This film succeeds in examining the power that music holds over its audience while avoiding the traditional music documentary clichés. Anyone who ever loved a band, or even just one song, will love the Last Dispatch.
15 Reviews
No Brian Wilson, but you can't have it all.
cloilia31 July 2005
Warning: Spoilers
One of the best rockumentaries I have seen since "I Am Going to Break your Heart," (possibly because despite Brian Wilson's erratic cameo in the very excellent "Theremin," I don't think it can be classified as a rockumentary)
certainly better than "Some Kind of Monster," but onto the film at hand
Coming from a person who doesn't have impeccable music taste and happened to randomly see a Dispatch show 5 years ago at the Avalon in Boston, I must say I fell in love with Dispatch as a unit and individually with Brad, Pete and Chad; their on-camera musings reminiscent of both lighthearted, entertainment fest "Spinal Tap" and heavier, reflective "The Kid Stays in the Picture." As you watch these three interact in rehearsals and recording sessions while preparing for their self-proclaimed (and fan-denied) final 2004 Hatch Shell show in Boston, one begins to wonder what exactly poisoned their seemingly perfect chemistry.
The film is very well done, as Helmut Schleppi and his crew of pros and interns, turn their closeness and knowledge of the band on its head to explore the intricacies, dynamics and ultimate pain when the of love for music and creativity clash with the sudden and unconventional success of these Indie Rock Superheroes. Schleppi certainly hit the jackpot with all the pre-existing band footage which allowed him to avoid talking heads and pointing fingers; with this gift of grainy home-video, Schleppi visually explores the inexplicable relationships between the members that helped to solidify, "famil"iarize and ultimately dissolved the band. Through creative building and a "Pulp Fiction" like chronology, the audience begins to understand (and morn) the loss of Dispatch . This being a rockumentary, one is pained to ignore the brilliant use of Dispatch's own recordings and jamming to further explore the band's uniqueness.
Schleppi has been accused of short changing the band, the documentary, and ultimately the audience, by being "too close to his subject" (Matt Ashare, The Boston Phoenix, 29 July 2005). Ashare insists that the audience is left puzzled, never given an explanation as to why Dispatch and their problems as a band were exceptional Schuleppi's closeness is not a handicap in the film, but by far its greatest advantage The audience feels close to the band instead of distant voyeurs trying to understand the elusive intricacies of human relationships that may not have a simple explanation tied-up with a ribbon, as over-produced television shows like VH1's "Behind the Music," or Michael Moore's over-the-top antics would have us craving. Schleppi choose not to corrupt the film by adding an omniscient narrator, allowing raw footage and interviews to form a picture of the band. Yes, the film's presentation and validity may have been compromised by his personal stake in the project, but this is the reality of documentary film outside of NOVA and Animal Planet (even this is questionable). On that note, Schleppi could have used more fan footage: certainly, the fans of Dispatch will notify any critic of why the band is so special, because, quiet simply, it is the fans that make them unique but it is this viewer's opinion that the film allows those less familiar with the band to see Dispatch's magnetism, and begin to understand why it all had to end . This film does not try to draw water from a stone, and that may just be it. I am not sure if the band members themselves actually know the answer so, as an audience, we must rely on our over-medicated, Reality-TV soaked brains to venture back to actual reality and watch, think, interpret, conclude and maybe even cry.
-SL P.S. To those kids from the Quabbin Reservoir in western mass Thanks for the ticket use teas bags for the swollen eyes and good luck next summer on that SPED bus I want to see your film at the Somerville Theater.
The film is very well done, as Helmut Schleppi and his crew of pros and interns, turn their closeness and knowledge of the band on its head to explore the intricacies, dynamics and ultimate pain when the of love for music and creativity clash with the sudden and unconventional success of these Indie Rock Superheroes. Schleppi certainly hit the jackpot with all the pre-existing band footage which allowed him to avoid talking heads and pointing fingers; with this gift of grainy home-video, Schleppi visually explores the inexplicable relationships between the members that helped to solidify, "famil"iarize and ultimately dissolved the band. Through creative building and a "Pulp Fiction" like chronology, the audience begins to understand (and morn) the loss of Dispatch . This being a rockumentary, one is pained to ignore the brilliant use of Dispatch's own recordings and jamming to further explore the band's uniqueness.
Schleppi has been accused of short changing the band, the documentary, and ultimately the audience, by being "too close to his subject" (Matt Ashare, The Boston Phoenix, 29 July 2005). Ashare insists that the audience is left puzzled, never given an explanation as to why Dispatch and their problems as a band were exceptional Schuleppi's closeness is not a handicap in the film, but by far its greatest advantage The audience feels close to the band instead of distant voyeurs trying to understand the elusive intricacies of human relationships that may not have a simple explanation tied-up with a ribbon, as over-produced television shows like VH1's "Behind the Music," or Michael Moore's over-the-top antics would have us craving. Schleppi choose not to corrupt the film by adding an omniscient narrator, allowing raw footage and interviews to form a picture of the band. Yes, the film's presentation and validity may have been compromised by his personal stake in the project, but this is the reality of documentary film outside of NOVA and Animal Planet (even this is questionable). On that note, Schleppi could have used more fan footage: certainly, the fans of Dispatch will notify any critic of why the band is so special, because, quiet simply, it is the fans that make them unique but it is this viewer's opinion that the film allows those less familiar with the band to see Dispatch's magnetism, and begin to understand why it all had to end . This film does not try to draw water from a stone, and that may just be it. I am not sure if the band members themselves actually know the answer so, as an audience, we must rely on our over-medicated, Reality-TV soaked brains to venture back to actual reality and watch, think, interpret, conclude and maybe even cry.
-SL P.S. To those kids from the Quabbin Reservoir in western mass Thanks for the ticket use teas bags for the swollen eyes and good luck next summer on that SPED bus I want to see your film at the Somerville Theater.
Every musicians dream
chadmcrouch15 July 2005
As a musician and former independent band member, this movie is a celebration of the commitment, hard work, passion and luck that it takes to pull a band together and make a difference. Combining personalities, musical talent, unique perspectives and individual aspirations; the band Dispatch accomplished what only other indy bands dream about... independent success in a "sell out" music industry.
From the "behind the scenes" beginning to the amazing turnout of the bands "Last Dispatch", this movie wins the hearts of die hard fans as well as newcomers alike. In the end, you are only left with one question, "Why does this have to be the Last Dispatch?"
If you are a fan of independent music and film production, this is a must-see.
From the "behind the scenes" beginning to the amazing turnout of the bands "Last Dispatch", this movie wins the hearts of die hard fans as well as newcomers alike. In the end, you are only left with one question, "Why does this have to be the Last Dispatch?"
If you are a fan of independent music and film production, this is a must-see.
A Great Movie About A Great Band
mattisaacs4 July 2005
I saw this movie at the pre-screening at Plymouth State University on April 22, 2005 and, trust me, it's very excellent. The film focuses on the reunion of the members of Dispatch in preparation for their final concert, "The Last Dispatch", on July 31st, 2004 in Boston, MA. You don't have to be a fan of the band to be captivated by the great story of three musicians who managed to rise out of the crowd with sheer talent and commitment, cementing their place in music history without ever signing with a record label. The film has the perfect mix of humor and drama as the band members' unique interests clash and the tension mounts before the final show. The film is particularly enjoyable to any of the 110,000 fans who attended the amazing final show, but I also highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates music, Dispatch or otherwise.
last DISPATCH - A Story for Us All
anoelle8112 July 2005
I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to pre-screen the last DISPATCH and I must say, as a "late comer" fan, I am truly saddened that I missed the ride. I came to Dispatch long after they stopped touring and I was unable to attend their final show. I can honestly say that after watching the documentary I understood not only the three men that were Dispatch, but I also began to see whisperings of my own life. This was a story for the ages. Although the title carries the name of a band the story is one of friendship, perseverance, and the ability to let go. Not only would I recommend that every Dispatch fan watch the movie, but I would urge anyone with a revolutionary heart to watch as well. I watched three amazing musicians push themselves, against all mainstream support, to become one of the best independent bands in music history. From last DISPATCH I take away a fuller understanding of the three that are Dispatch as well as a renewed sense to strength in my own beliefs.
a great story about the music industry and standing up for what you believe in
MMBryan4111 July 2005
I saw a prescreening of Last Dispatch and I really love this movie. For those of you that are not familiar with the band, this movie tells the story of Dispatch as they prepare to play their final concert after a 2 year hiatus. The film shows the 12 days leading up to the concert and tells how the band was started, why they are done, and how they became a successful band without ever signing to a major label. Dispatch is truly a band that did things their own way. They never listened to those people that told them they could not succeed in the music industry without the backing of a major label. On July 31st, 2004 they proved the industry wrong when 110,000 people showed up to Boston to say goodbye to the band they all loved. It is a story about following your dreams and always believing in yourself. I strongly recommend this movie to anyone who has ever heard the band as well as those who just love music. Everyone can appreciate what these guys did and the message that they delivered to 110,000 people last July.
Amazing Film!
babybluefetish11 July 2005
I was also fortunate enough to attend the preview screening of "the last dispatch" movie. The film celebrates the lives of three of the most amazing, independent, live musicians...following their story and career within the band Dispatch. The film is not all "glitz" and "glam" like other Hollywood music films, but instead, it captures the real emotion of it all. I highly recommend this film to anyone who was a fan, anyone who attended the last dispatch, and to any other music fan. It's really fun, and also very musical. The reunion weekend in Boston (july 28-31) is going to be incredible, and I am definitely going to make it out to the premiere weekend just for that.
remarkable film...
m_wilhelm11 July 2005
the movie's sick... whether you're a fan of the band or not, the film's about more than that - it's about 3 guys following their dream. for anyone who has ever called an artist a "sellout" for signing with a major label, this movie's for you. it's a story about integrity, about doing things your own way, and shocking the establishment. it shows the band members rehearsing together for the first time in 2 years, writing some new songs, unsure if 5,000 people are going to come out or 30,000 - and then 110,000 people showed up the band's final show, a free concert at the hatch shell in boston, shutting down storrow drive (the major road right off the highway through the city)! "last dispatch" is easily my favorite music documentary - i liked it even more than the ones about bands that i listen to regularly. go see it!
An awesome movie for everyone!
em_cal11 July 2005
The film 'Last Dispatch' is a must see for anyone who has ever dared to dream. This captivating documentary tells the story of a band, Dispatch, who succeeded in the music industry without ever signing to a label (a feat that any music enthusiast knows is nearly impossible). This band started with a dream and ended with the biggest event in independent music history, a concert with 110,000 attendees. The story of 'Last Dispatch' is inspiring to anyone who has ever had a vision that no one else was able to see. This inspiring story is accompanied by excellent directing and producing. It is a must see for any dispatch fan, music enthusiast or dreamer.
Excellent film, very upbeat, very real
pauldonnelly6431 July 2005
Great film for those who've come to know and love this extraordinary band. The only sad part is watching them play and interact with each other and realizing they are no longer creating great music(together, that is.) Although the film offered the occasional insight as to why the guys called it quits, the film focused on the music and didn't get bogged down in any kind tearful melodrama. As stated in my summary, it was very upbeat and the boys kept it real(did we expect anything less?!) Saw the midnight premier at the Somerville Theatre and it was definitely well received by all those in attendance.
A must see for any Dispatch fan.
A must see for any Dispatch fan.
Go now you are forgiven
Shmalmadngdong31 July 2005
And so it goes, the story of three best friends that redefined independent music. The Last Dispatch tells the story of three friends, three talented musicians, one van (wimpy) and the three guys that brought together 110,000 people for one final concert. The Last Dispatch was a well told documentary, as a fan I urge all 110,000 of you to see this film-it not only shows you their talent, and love for music but it shows you the story of their friendship and their promise to keep their friendship alive even if it meant saying good bye to dispatch. But above it all The Last Dispatch was a way of the band to say once more good bye and thank you to all their fans, for bringing them so far.
If you haven't seen it find a way to see it-if you made it out to the last concert you can make it to the theater. Its worth it. You'll laugh, smile, and you may even cry.
If you haven't seen it find a way to see it-if you made it out to the last concert you can make it to the theater. Its worth it. You'll laugh, smile, and you may even cry.
Amazing
swimtrend1 August 2005
This movie was amazing! It was great to see the story of how they became friends and what brought them to where they are. They are quite possibly the best band I have ever heard! I love all their music and every concert I went to was unbelievable! The movie showed those people that are new fans what it was like and those people that weren't fans the amazing thing they missed out on. It was awesome to sit in the theater and hear people around you sing the songs and point themselves out at some of the concerts. Seeing the sea of people that we were all surrounded by at the Last Dispatch was mind blowing. I wish they had put in a bit more music from the Somerville theater show and the Last Dispatch show but I guess that is why they have those other movies. I loved every last minute of this movie. It was a perfect closing to this chapter of the dispatch story!
For any Dispatch fan, Amazing
sgt-_campsalot27 September 2006
This is a must-view for anyone who is a fan of Dispatch. Phenomenal.... It documents the last days of the band, but gives the history of how they rose through the rough to become one of the most successful independent music acts, all without the help of recording companies, advertisers, or anything. It was all done through word-of-mouth. Even their last concert on 07-31-2004, which attracted 110,000+ fans, had no form of advertising whatsoever. Even on the venue's schedule for the day it said "TBA".
However, it is also an inspiring piece of work for anyone and everyone who ever had dreams but they didn't think they could do it on their own. This movie makes it clear: you CAN do it on your own, whether it be something in the music/movie/entertainment industry, or a entrepreneurial/business pursuit of any kind. No one needs the backing of a huge recording company or financial investors. If you have the dream, you can make it come true.
However, it is also an inspiring piece of work for anyone and everyone who ever had dreams but they didn't think they could do it on their own. This movie makes it clear: you CAN do it on your own, whether it be something in the music/movie/entertainment industry, or a entrepreneurial/business pursuit of any kind. No one needs the backing of a huge recording company or financial investors. If you have the dream, you can make it come true.
Just plain good
bkdlays10 October 2005
I don't need to write a 10 paragraph review after everyone else has done so. Read theirs. Its true. Its good... and do you have anything better to do anyways? This movie is good for all...fan of the band or not! Just watch it! I'm out
OK I'm back.. 10 lines min!
Okay the Sommerville theater where I saw the movie looks exactly like it did while they taped the movie. Duh. But cool
It also looks the same as it did 100 years ago I bet!
The band was cool to meet. It this 10 lines yet? Anyways not sure where if anywhere it is playing anyway. But the DVD should be out sooner or later.
OK I'm back.. 10 lines min!
Okay the Sommerville theater where I saw the movie looks exactly like it did while they taped the movie. Duh. But cool
It also looks the same as it did 100 years ago I bet!
The band was cool to meet. It this 10 lines yet? Anyways not sure where if anywhere it is playing anyway. But the DVD should be out sooner or later.
Saw this show from the lawn, got the DVD in the mail.
besttripproductions2 December 2007
This was worth the trip to Boston. By far the best show I've ever seen. There were kids hanging from the trees, even I swam in the Charles River(only to find out later it's one of the dirtiest rivers I could have ever jumped in.
The DVD gives the show the credit it deserves. I only gave it an 8 though because they cut a lot of songs out of the two shows that really should have been there.
I didn't even know about the other show until we got the DVD. Both shows though, fantastic views of each on the DVD.
mad love for dispatch.
The DVD gives the show the credit it deserves. I only gave it an 8 though because they cut a lot of songs out of the two shows that really should have been there.
I didn't even know about the other show until we got the DVD. Both shows though, fantastic views of each on the DVD.
mad love for dispatch.
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