This film about the famous reggae singer/songwriter stars Kingsley Ben-Adir. It’s not a straightforward biopic, because it’s mostly set after his fame has been established. The story starts in Jamaica during a tumultuous civil war that was rife with violence and it explores his efforts to bring peace to his homeland. A few flashbacks to his formative years add a more biographical slant. There’s also plenty of his music, in the soundtrack, in concerts and in the studio. Ben-Adir captures Marley’s joy and charisma, while Lashana Lynch provides strong support as his wife. The Jamaican patois is sometimes so thick it’s hard to understand, but they’ve made sure the dialogue is clear in pivotal exchanges. While the film is rich with Marley’s music and a joyful performance by Ben-Adir, the dramatic conflicts seldom add much depth to the characterization. It’s more a celebration of the man and his music. 
(3 / 5)
