Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Bobby J. Brown
Producer
- Ron Frank
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic represents a fascinating example of Documentary/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Bobby J. Brown brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 57 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 84 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 183 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike James Brown: Soul Survivor, which focuses more on action than character development, Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Harder They Come and Meet the Feebles explore similar territory, Tear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 26, 2016
- Runtime: 57m
Where to Watch

