71
Metascore
4 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 83ConsequenceClint WorthingtonConsequenceClint WorthingtonSacha Jenkins' doc is a warts-and-all examination of the funk-punk superstar, refusing to editorialize his sins and successes."
- 80Wall Street JournalJohn AndersonWall Street JournalJohn AndersonWith his Maasai-influenced braids or canopy of Jheri curls and his use of sex and misogyny to sell himself, James is a kind of dinosaur. But he’s also one whom Mr. Jenkins—one of our better cultural critics who happen to make films—pursues to enlightening effect.
- 70The New York TimesGlenn KennyThe New York TimesGlenn KennyThe movie wants the viewer to believe that James didn’t have it easy — and he didn’t. But it can’t skate over the aberrant actions that led to his imprisonment. “Bitchin’” is fascinating and troubling viewing.
- 63Boston GlobePeter KeoughBoston GlobePeter KeoughDrawing on the memories of family members, friends, and collaborators, and tapping into a trove of archival material, including tapes of James’s raucous, raunchy live shows, Jenkins keeps pace with his subject’s breakneck progress. Along the way James encounters opportunities that are missed or exploited and tragedies that are averted or courted. He transforms hard times into artistic success, and squanders success in debauchery.