A rambling, zoned-out but interesting biopic jam session based around Jimi Hendrix’s years in swinging 60s London. It’s an interesting, speculative approach to what Hendrix’s life might have been like, and André Benjamin’s laidback lead performance is intelligent and sympathetic. However, copyright issues mean that none of the great songs can be used, so Hendrix’s musical presence is lacking. Imogen Poots plays Linda Keith, the posh, smart young woman from England who sees Hendrix perform in New York and becomes an evangelist for his greatness. Andrew Buckley as Chas Chandler, the Animals’ bassist who becomes a manager and another disciple, and Hayley Atwell is his girlfriend Kathy Etchingham. What we get is a potentially interesting if meandering account of his offstage existence, hanging round, shopping, getting hassled by racist coppers. Benjamin conveys something of Hendrix’s gentleness and charm.
