Every so often a song comes along that transcends genre and takes on a life of its own.
Leonard Cohen labored through years of meticulous revisions to create “Hallelujah,” only to have Columbia Records reject it. It would take more years and other artists covering it before it would become a seminal accomplishment, the song that moves listeners across generations, music types, and mediums.
The documentary Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, a Journey, a Song is as much a history of the song as it is of its creator.
Made with Cohen’s tacit blessing, the film digs deep into his estate’s holdings. Filmmakers Daniel Geller and Dayna Goldfine narrate a story with Cohen’s own words, his journals, archival interviews, and footage. They supplement that with new interviews and explore those who covered the song.
The film’s journey is compelling, filled with twists and revelations. By focusing on the song rather than the man, the filmmakers create an arc that keeps viewers engaged. The choice opens a window into the poet and songwriter’s life, revealing his spirituality, his philosophies, and his constant seeking rather than the more lurid details of love affairs or scandals. It elevates the film from a dated celebrity feature to a more timeless examination of how a particular piece of music came to resonate with so many and the myriad contributions that made it a success.
A moving and powerful film, it is a fitting tribute to a masterpiece and an opportunity for viewers to participate in an unmatched, memorable journey. PG-13, 115 min.
Music Box Theatre, limited theatrical release
