by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Welcome to the Buried Treasure of the Streaming World! This series takes a month’s worth of content at a time and sifts out the buried treasure that exists on all forms of streaming. These films most likely fly under the radar, but now it is time to shine that spotlight on them and give them the attention they truly deserve. Time to dive in, shall we?
The Pez Outlaw (7/10) – VOD
Who would have thought that there was an international ring of Pez dispenser black markets that sent one man on a collision course with The Pezident? Yes… The Pez Outlaw is quite insane but shockingly true! Now we get to hear the whole tale thanks to this new documentary. Steve Glew was just one man, but now he tells his story about this journey to become a filthy rich man. This film is packed with over-the-top dramatizations and Glew’s engaging personality. The combination combination makes for a thrilling rider worth hopping on.
Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues (8/10) – Apple TV+
What do you know about one of the pioneering figures in American jazz? If you want to learn of his early life through his rise as one of America’s first popular music stars and cultural ambassadors, Black & Blues is the documentary for you. Apple TV+ offers this insightful and engaging walk through the life of iconic musician, Louis Armstrong. There is a great legacy from musical and racial standpoints, and this film guides the audience through both in a meaningful way. This is a generational talent who transcends genre and racial barriers, and this film does its best to do him justice.
Slash/Back (8/10) – Shudder
What is the ideal team to take down an invasion of tentacle-clad alien parasites in a small Alaskan town? A group of young girls, that’s who! Slash/Back is a spunky good time with plenty of science fiction trappings, but it never once forgets that it is about human beings. The dynamic among this group of friends is charming enough to warrant a film about, and then the alien parts are just the cherry on top. When you can make sci-fi where the human drama elements are on equal footing with the genre fare, you know you did it right. Humor, thrills, and love mix to make a wonderful treat on Shudder.
Travelin’ Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival at the Royal Albert Hall (7/10) – Netflix
Who should narrate the story of one of the ‘60s’ most iconic acts? The Dude abides, and Jeff Bridges tells us the tale of Creedence Clearwater Revival. This new Netflix documentary is a wonderful combination of concert film and documentary about the career of this band. We learn the history of CCR, even though it sugarcoats some places. We hear from John Fogerty and the gang as they take a tour of Europe. But finally… Creedence playing live at Royal Albert Hall. Travelin’ Band offers up an impressive concert that helped define the legacy of this legendary band. This documentary achieves both its goals… making you learn AND offering up some amazing music.
The Sound of 007 (7/10) – Prime Video
Who is James Bond without all his iconic elements? Music just might be one of the most important keys to the legacy and success of this iconic franchise. In honor of 60 years, Bond’s new home at Amazon offers up The Sound of 007 to the fans, and it doesn’t disappoint. This documentary is a wonderful dive into the long history of Bond themes and scores, and it paints a murders’ row of the best in music over these six decades. From the classics of Shirley Bassey to the bolder offerings of Duran Duran, this documentary has it all. The extra bonus is experiencing the creative process of Billie Eilish bringing “No Time to Die” to life. If you are a fan, this film is a must see.
You can follow Shane Conto on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd