Gorillaz: Reject False Icons

20191h 35m Directed by Denholm Hewlett
7.6
(54 votes)
DocumentaryMusic

Overview

Focused on the life of the band and their collaborators over the 3 vital years in which they developed critically acclaimed albums, 'Humanz' and 'The Now Now', and undertook their most ambitious world tour to date.

Gorillaz: Reject False Icons

Unmasking the Creative Genius of Gorillaz: A Review of Reject False Icons

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadOct 15, 2025
The documentary film "Gorillaz: Reject False Icons" offers an intimate and unfiltered look into the life of the iconic virtual band and their collaborators, spanning three pivotal years in their career. Directed by Denholm Hewlett, the film delves into the creative process behind the critically acclaimed albums "Humanz" and "The Now Now", as well as their most ambitious world tour to date. With unprecedented access to the band's inner circle, the documentary provides a fascinating glimpse into the innovative and often unconventional approach that has come to define Gorillaz's unique sound and style.

As the film navigates the highs and lows of the band's journey, it becomes clear that "Reject False Icons" is as much about the people behind the music as it is about the music itself. The documentary shines a light on the talented individuals who bring the virtual band to life, including Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett, and a diverse array of collaborators. Through candid interviews, rehearsals, and live performances, the film humanizes the Gorillaz phenomenon, revealing the dedication, passion, and creativity that drives their artistic vision. While the film's pacing can be uneven at times, the wealth of captivating footage and insightful commentary makes for a compelling viewing experience that will resonate with both die-hard fans and newcomers to the Gorillaz universe.

One of the most striking aspects of "Reject False Icons" is its ability to balance the band's artistic ambitions with the harsh realities of the music industry. The film pulls back the curtain on the challenges of creating and performing complex, visually driven music, from the meticulous planning of live shows to the pressures of meeting fan expectations. At the same time, it celebrates the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and rejecting the status quo, whether through their eclectic blend of genres or their thought-provoking lyrics. With its unique blend of music, art, and documentary storytelling, "Gorillaz: Reject False Icons" is a must-see for anyone interested in the creative process, the music industry, or the enduring appeal of this innovative and influential band.

CAST

Damon Albarn
Damon Albarn
Self [Gorillaz]
Phil Cornwell
Phil Cornwell
Murdoc Niccals [Gorillaz] (voice)
Graham Coxon
Graham Coxon
Self
Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg
Self
Yasiin Bey
Yasiin Bey
Mos Def
Vince Staples
Vince Staples
Self
Jean-Michel Jarre
Jean-Michel Jarre
Self
Pusha T
Pusha T
Self
D.R.A.M.
Self
Ben Mendelsohn
Ben Mendelsohn
Self

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