One Love, the Bob Marley biopic starring Kingsley Ben-Adir, clocks in at approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. While the runtime provides ample opportunity to delve into Marley’s life, the film’s pacing and structure have drawn criticism. This article explores the length of One Love and examines how effectively it utilizes its runtime to tell Marley’s story.
One Love’s Runtime and Narrative Structure
Although the movie boasts a substantial runtime, its non-linear storytelling approach has proven divisive. Rather than following a chronological order, One Love jumps between different periods of Marley’s life. While some viewers might find this approach refreshing, others have found it disorienting and detrimental to the film’s overall impact. Key events, such as the assassination attempt on Marley and his subsequent battle with cancer, are introduced relatively late in the film, potentially lessening their emotional resonance. Subplots, like the political turmoil in Jamaica and conflicts with Marley’s business manager, are introduced but often left unresolved, contributing to the film’s fragmented feel.
Performances and Cinematography Within the Runtime
Despite the criticisms leveled against its structure, One Love features compelling performances and striking visuals. Kingsley Ben-Adir delivers a captivating portrayal of Bob Marley, embodying his charisma and capturing the essence of his musical genius. Lashana Lynch shines as Rita Marley, offering a nuanced performance that showcases her strength and resilience. The film’s cinematography effectively captures the beauty of Jamaica, showcasing both its vibrant landscapes and its social realities. These strong elements, however, are somewhat undermined by the film’s structural choices. The extended runtime, while potentially offering space for deeper exploration, ultimately feels somewhat squandered due to the disjointed narrative.
Considering One Love’s Length: Is It Worth Watching?
The question of whether One Love’s runtime justifies its narrative choices is subjective. While the film’s length allows for showcasing strong performances and beautiful cinematography, the fragmented storytelling might leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. For dedicated Bob Marley fans, the film’s length provides an opportunity to immerse themselves in his world and appreciate the performances of Ben-Adir and Lynch. However, for casual viewers or those seeking a more conventional biopic experience, One Love’s unconventional structure and pacing might prove frustrating.
Ultimately, One Love, while visually engaging and featuring powerful acting, struggles to effectively utilize its 2-hour and 15-minute runtime to deliver a cohesive and emotionally impactful narrative. The film’s length becomes a double-edged sword, providing ample time for strong performances and visual storytelling but also exacerbating the issues stemming from its non-linear structure.
