I have been a long time fan of Chris Von Sneidern's music, his songwriting talent and the perfect voice for melodic pop rock. Since I listen mostly of independent and DIY rock music, I have noticed that even great talents don't often hit the mainstream. Still, a documentary film Why Isn't Chris Von Sneidern Famous? asks an appropriate question in its title.

Why Isn't Chris Von Sneidern Famous? is a documentary by Kathleen McNamara, focusing on singer-songwriter Chris Von Sneidern's (CVS) genious songwriting and the fact, that he isn't as famous as he should be - according to others. McNamara follows Von Sneidern for a few years, in his home, in his mother's home and the small bars he plays most of his gigs.

Although in the latter part of the documentary you might get a feeling that story does not really unfold and the target is missing, it is saved by McNamara's ability to get close to Von Sneidern and his friends & family. Chris opens himself up to McNamara and so does his bandmates - so directly, that even hurts. Themes like death and getting old pop up every once a while. Although there is nothing scandalous here, you feel a little uncomfortable in some parts of the film. That just tells that you care about Chris and people beside him. It also helps, that the director has chosen the interviews that really matter and are interesting.

Why Isn't Chris Von Sneidern Famous? tastes like life - nothing fancy, like the every day of a musician not making it - in terms of money and fame. Kathleen McNamara's film reminds us strongly, what is important. Hint: money and fame are not.

There is also a great amount of CVS music to be heard in the film - so, this interesting documentary features also one the best soundtracks of rockumentaries, ever.

Extras of the DVD include commentary by director McNamara and CVS himself, acoustic performance by CVS as well as film trailer and fun songwriting example by CVS & John Wesley Harding.