Wetlands Preserved (2007/First Run Features)

 

Picture: C     Sound: B-     Extras: C+     Documentary: B-

 

 

In its time, a very important and little-discussed venue in New York City called Wetlands was a very important center for music, running an entire decade before “Giuliani Time” made sure it was pushed out of its location.  That may have even been for political reasons, though the former mayor’s drive to makeover New York by erasing its culture and replacing it with a cartoon version is as much a part of the madness as anything.  Johnathan Healey’s cleverly named Wetlands Preserved (2007) documents the rise and fall of a music locale that is slowly growing in legend long after its gone.

 

Bringing neo-hippies, stoners, blues and some alternative acts together, it became a center for known acts and many who have gone on to be some of the biggest in the music industry.  The names are impressive and many, including Dave Mathews Band, Spin Doctors, Blues Traveler, Fishbone, Joan Osbourne, Ani DiFranco, Sublime and a list so massive that they included it in the film’s credits.  Even if these acts do not represent music genres you like, their talent and popularity, as well as endurance are undeniable and prove just what a vital and valued place this venue was.  The result here is a fitting tribute worth a look.

 

The anamorphically enhanced 1.78 X 1 image is softer than a new production should be, including the consideration to older analog video.  Why, I don’t know, but despite lower expectations for documentaries, this can be trying at times.  The PCM 16/48 2.0 Stereo may have some harshness in places, but is a nice change from the usual substandard Dolby Digital 2.0 we would get otherwise.  Extras include stills, outtakes and more concert footage.

 

 

-   Nicholas Sheffo