Big Time

Most of the time I'm not a fan of concert films. I would prefer to be there in person rather than experiencing it through a director's eyes. But there is one concert film that blows me away each time I watch it. Tom Waits Big Time.

This isn't your typical concert film. Other than being one of the best songwriters and musicians out there, Waits is also a true showman. This film captures his theatrical side as well as his gift for music. Director Chris Blum has tapped into Waits' sensabilities and is able to find the right mix of the bizarre and funny with Waits' powerful lyrics.

The music is a good blend of classics and his years at Island Records, which is my favorite Waits era. And he has a great way of taking a song of his and improving on it in concert. A lot of times, I'll hear a song live and think that it sounded better on the original recording. But Waits is such a master that it's almost like it's a new song.

I know that Waits isn't everybody's cup of tea, but I think even non fans could watch this and find something entertaining.

This movie is crying out for a dvd/blu ray release. I would love to see a crisp transfer of it. And since he doesn't tour much anymore, this is the closest that a lot of us will get to see this amazing performer in action.