The five-hour HBO Max documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes, is a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. This isn’t a simple retelling of a famous musician’s life; it’s a deep and honest look into the man behind the music.
What makes this film so great is its candor in the storytelling, specifically from Joel himself. You have Joel discussing his career triumphs and personal failures with honesty, and it comes across as very sincere. He talks openly about his relationships, financial struggles, and the creative process that defined his sound.
The documentary is a treasure trove of archival footage, including never-before-seen home videos, intimate photographs, and performance footage that bring his journey to life. This all helps guide you through the timeline and the overall story.
The best part of this entire documentary is its ability to connect Joel’s life directly to his art. It meticulously links his personal experiences, like his childhood trauma, failed marriages, and a relentless drive for success, to the timeless songs we all know. You’ll listen to classics like “Piano Man” and “Just the Way You Are” with a new, profound understanding of their origins. To me, this is what made watching the entire film worth it.
I can’t forget that this also features some cool commentary from fellow musicians like Pink, Nas, Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney, And So It Goes is a MUST watch. While its length could be called into question, every minute is justified. For both die-hard fans and those new to his work, this documentary is rewarding!
