Somewhat overlong and not as incisive as it could be, Cobain: Montage of Heck is nonetheless a satisfying portrait of a troubled genius.

Cobain’s turbulent story is told mostly through a collage of archive footage, audio snippets and kinetically-animated journal entries, brought vibrantly to life through punchy editing and some smart soundtrack choices.

The film’s original footage comprises some undercooked interviews with Cobain’s family and friends and – the real highlight – some cel-shaded sequences which imaginatively depict key events of his life.

There is much here for newcomers and casual admirers; however, ardent Cobain fans may be left wanting.

Cobain’s music and his striking artwork coalesce to help us understand his mind – however the rest of this documentary plays it a little too safe to take us much further.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, Courtney Love

DIRECTOR: Brett Morgen

WRITER: Brett Morgen

SYNOPSIS: The authorized documentary on the late musician Kurt Cobain, from his early childhood in Washington to the height of his fame with Nirvana and eventual downfall.