Danielson: A Family Movie (or, Make a Joyful Noise Here)

This documentary features the life of Daniel Smith, an unconventional musician and visual artist who navigates the challenges of family dynamics and individual expression while pursuing indie rock fame. It delves into the contrasts between Christian faith and popular culture, as well as the struggles faced by underground artists in the music industry.

As Daniel mentors Sufjan Stevens, the film juxtaposes their paths, revealing the differences in their reception by the music world. While Stevens finds success, Daniel grapples with the complexities of maintaining his artistic vision in an ever-evolving industry. The film employs various techniques, including collage, direct cinema, and animation, to enrich its storytelling.