review: DIXIE CHICKS - SHUT UP & SING

Weinstein Company  //  Buy from Amazon.com In 2003, the female country band, The Dixie Chicks, are at the top of their game being one of the most successful bands of all time. However with the US invasion of Iraq about to begin over frustrated worldwide objections about this needless war, one of the Chick vents off the cuff in concert about being ashamed of US President George W. Bush. This statement sparks a firestorm of organized and personal right wing attacks against the Chicks for daring to think they have the right to express a negative personal opinion about the President. This film covers the band's effort to ride out the turmoil that would leave their careers under a cloud, but would eventually give them a opportunity to grow as great artists who bow to no one. I'll admit: when "Wide Open Spaces" first came out, I was hooked on its catchy chorus and found myself fawning over lead singer Emily Maines. While always respectful of the independent approach the Dixie Chicks took with their music, I was never much of a country fan, so I didn't pay them much attention once the initial glow of that world-wide hit faded. Fast forward to 2003, and one harmless comment about the leader of the free world and these three ladies found themselves crucified like few others in music had ever been. It's remarkable how quickly, and how venomously, the country reacted against them, and to actually see CDs being burned and steamrolled in 2003 (and not 1903) was shocking. Watching how these three ladies handled, dealt with, and moved beyond the insanity that surrounded them was quite amazing - I have no doubts that I would have either caved under that enormous pressure, or at least snapped like an angry turtle, yet they handled themselves with respect intact. For that, I applaud 'em. This fly-on-the-wall documentary makes for excellent, and eye-opening, viewing entertainment. Video Shot on video and presented in a fullscreen (1.33:1) aspect ratio, the DVD has a good, clean picture throughout, without the gloss or sheen you might expect from such a production. Audio Dolby Digital 2.0 mix is solid - no complaints. Extras trailer Closing Thoughts Fascinating look at America through the eyes (or journey) of the Dixie Chicks + no real extras = disc well worth checking out