Barbara Morgenstern: A Passionate Journey Unveiled - DOK Leipzig Review

If you want to truly understand an artist, there’s one surefire method: dive right into their creative process. At least, that’s the path taken by the perceptive filmmaker Sabine Herpich in her latest documentary, *Barbara Morgenstern - Doing It For Love*. This isn't your run-of-the-mill biopic; instead, it’s a deeply intimate look at the German electro-pop musician as she sweats through the grueling yet exhilarating task of writing, recording, and finally performing her new album, *In Anderem Licht*.

Now, let's be honest here—this film is a sweet little gem, but it’s the kind of treasure that might only attract viewers who are already in the Barbara Morgenstern fan club. It’s a targeted experience, like attending an exclusive dinner party where everyone knows about the main course, and you’re just there for the dessert. And let me tell you—if you follow Morgenstern, this is a backstage pass you won’t want to miss.

Herpich's documentary is part of a thoughtful series that dives into the heart of artistic creation. Previous works include a look into the mind of sculptor David Laugomer and the enchanting journey of a painting coming to life in *A Picture By Aleksander Gudalo*. Her film *Art Comes From The Beak The Way It Has Grown*, which premiered in Berlin, brought us into an art workshop for individuals with disabilities. With a gentle hand, Herpich peels back the layers of creativity, allowing her subjects to breathe in an atmosphere that encourages unfiltered creativity.

As we join Morgenstern, there she is, bright-eyed and grinning at the camera, balancing her MacBook atop a shoebox in a cozy room filled with books and knick-knacks. “I feel the need to explain myself to you,” she proclaims with a cheeky smile. “But I won’t.” And oh, does that set the tone! We get to witness a pivotal shift in Morgenstern's work, as she ventures away from the electronic roots that have defined her sound since 1998—collaborating with the likes of Mathew Herbert, Van Dyke Parks, and Arto Lindsay—and daringly embraces a new musical direction featuring strings and a saxophonist.

Despite its niche appeal, spending time with Morgenstern is a delight. She exudes warmth and a sunny disposition, radiating joy in her creative process and collaborations. It’s a decision she has made deliberately; reminiscing through photo albums, she reveals that her mother’s struggle with debilitating depression marked her childhood. “That was an extreme motivation for me,” she confides. “No way I’m going to hide away in my little house.”

Herpich's leisurely pacing means we get to see those behind-the-scenes moments that most documentaries gloss over. Some scenes are riveting, like the music taking its final form in rehearsal or the inspirations behind the album cover. But then there’s that awkward stretch where we find ourselves peering at Morgenstern's computer screen, which could test anyone’s patience. Are we watching a documentary or starring in a tech support tutorial? Nevertheless, the true test of any music documentary lies in whether you would put the artist’s music on your playlist outside of the confines of the film. Spoiler alert: Morgenstern passes with flying colors. Her songs—woven with layers of harmony, poignant lyrics, and intriguing time signatures—captivate and linger in the soul like good chocolate cake.

So, if you find yourself ever yearning to peek into the delightful chaos of creative genius, grab some popcorn, settle in, and let *Doing It For Love* be your guide. And if you weren’t a fan before, prepare to be swept off your feet by the enchanting melodies of Barbara Morgenstern.