Available on DVD and Blu-Ray from Mon 15 Sep

Lenny Abrahamson / UK/Ireland / 2013 / 94 mins

Jon (Domhnall Gleeson) is a struggling musician having difficulty finding his way in life until, through a chance encounter, he suddenly finds himself playing keyboard in an experimental rock band lead by an enigmatic frontman known only as Frank (Michael Fassbender). Soon they find themselves on a journey from near obscurity to having a shot at the big time. However, as their reputation grows, the band members’ anxieties and ambitions begin to cause conflict, the resulting fallout raising interesting questions not only about artistic integrity, but also their mental wellbeing.

Written by Jon Ronson (The Men Who Stare at Goats) and Peter Straughan (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), Frank stems from Ronson’s own experiences as a keyboard player to musician and entertainer, Frank Sidebottom (Chris Sievey). Throughout the movie Fassbender wears a Papier-mâché head in tribute to Sievey, but also to hide his character’s own anxieties and problems. The strength of the writing and the actor’s bold yet subtle performance ensure that, though Frank’s actions are comedic, there is a big heart beneath the mask.

The film takes simultaneous looks at the burdens of both mental illness and being an artist, showing that whilst freedom of expression can be a cathartic and beautiful thing, it can also be a heavy load to bear. As well as Sievey, the character of Frank is inspired by the musician Daniel Johnston, a man whose endearing songs and unique personality cause audiences to warm to him, despite his personal struggles. The film manages to capture this quality, presenting a vulnerable and talented musician who stands for honesty and integrity through expression.

The central act, clearly influenced by Captain Beefheart and the recording sessions for the album Trout Mask Replica, is both funny and poignant. Focusing on the band’s experimental methods, it portrays the ridiculous lengths they will go to write a song and create their unique and beguiling art. It may seem unusual, but Frank is a movie that wholeheartedly presents the honesty of mental illness and artistic endeavour, showing all the ups and downs that can come with it. The result is a portrayal of these characters and their turmoils just as touching as it is amusing.