Heima

Heima is a double-disc documentary about Sigur Ros and a series of free, unannounced concerts they played in their native Iceland in 2007. It's probably the most holistic rock documentary that's ever been made. Heima offers not only exquisite music, but breathtaking scenery, sociological and historical insight, and a gentle, genuine, and powerful example of giving back to one's community.

Sigur Ros had just completed an extensive and lengthy tour, one that took them to exciting locales worldwide. But rather than make them less enamored and appreciative of their home, it made them more so. In this 16-site tour, they play very diverse venues, such as community centers, abandoned factories, and outdoor fields. Sometimes the audience is large, sometimes it is nonexistent. The beautiful thing is the energy that surrounds the events and infuses the band no matter how many people show up. Also, the diversity of the audiences is stunning, from elderly grandparents to young children. Many may not have heard the band's music before, but all enjoy the outing.

Seeing Heima made me consider music in my own culture. Could such a communal, inclusive, spontaneous event ever happen here? Would Americans, of all ages and social and economic backgrounds, value free music? Would they risk their time on the experience? Would musicians undertake such a project to enrich themselves personally and to connect to their culture without financial gain?

I'd love your comments and highly recommend this beautiful film.