Come Worry With Us! : Thee Silver Mt. Zion

Fantastic, well-done documentary

     

Full disclosure: I’m a huge GY!BE and Thee Silver Mt. Zion fan. But I don’t think that colors my opinion too much. On its own this movie is a really interesting look into the lives of Efrim, Jessica, and their son Ezra as a family and as working/touring musicians trying to make ends meet. There is an interesting clash between Efrim and Jessica's need to provide for Ezra and personal principle - choosing not to charge more for tickets and merchandise on tours when they easily could (and live much more comfortably). There are questions re: traditional gender roles/balance and how Efrim and Jessica fit in to that template - they seem almost surprised at how it turns out (not in a bad way). It’s clearly not easy for them to make some of the choices and sacrifices they have to make (like many parents), but despite the palpable tension and stress, there is an underlying and ultimately overwhelming feeling of optimism and a commitment by all of the musicians featured to honesty and principle. Really well-done film. And, it’s beautifully shot to boot.