nonetheless adds to this ugly-pop-duckling success story. More clearly than ever, we’re able to see the secular changes Cohen made to the largely spiritual original lyric after he began performing it live, as well as the verses Cale chose and the ones that the makers ofdecided were suitable for an animated kids’ movie. There are also plenty of fascinating tidbits for Cohenologists.
Perhaps wisely realizing that the story of “Hallelujah” alone wouldn’t be enough to fill two hours, Geller and Goldfine also delve into Cohen’s life and how it intersected with the rise, fall and revival of the song. His Sixties makeover from novelist and poet to thirtysomething songwriter is here, complete with fascinating period clips like the moment in 1966 when, while promoting one of his books on Canadian TV, he offered to also sing a song.
NeilDrysdale I once got dumped at a Starbucks and Hallelujah was playing in the background. Haven't been able to listen to it since!!