Gigantic: A Tale of Two Johns

They Might Be Giants, comprised of John Linnell and John Flansburgh, are one of rock's most enduring, albeit unconventional success stories, if we define success not by album sales, but by artistic freedom. As one record executive remarks in this engaging documentary, "They record when they want to record. They play the songs they want to play. They tour when they want to tour. They've made unique videos that were accepted early on. They've really been the vanguard of alternative, and I think their importance can't be underestimated." Gigantic profiles TMBG through rollicking concert footage and interviews with Linnell and Flansburgh, and such admirers as author Dave Eggers, National Public Radio contributor Sarah Vowell, and even venerable talk show host Joe Franklin. "Just how serious a documentary is this?" inquires a tentative Syd Straw, a singer-songwriter who toured with TMBG. Not too: director Al Schnack takes his cue from the two Johns, creator of such quirky delights as "Birdhouse In Your Soul," a song about a nightlight, which they performed with Doc Severinsen on The Tonight Show. More mainstream career milestones include composing the theme for the Emmy-winning mock news show The Daily Show, winning a Grammy in 2002 for their boisterous theme for Malcolm in the Middle, and releasing their critically acclaimed 2002 children's album No!  But their claim to cult fame was Dial-a-Song, the pioneering answering machine service that offered callers a new song, or a song-in-progress nearly everyday. Fans, of course, will get the most out of this, but it may also inspire the uninitiated to check them out. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary by costars John Linnell and John Flansburgh, director AJ Schnack, and author Sarah Vowell; “Bonus Materials” segments including “Birdhouse in Your Soul” from The Tonight Show and “Excerpts from the Fan Room”; two deleted scenes with optional commentary by Schnack and producer Shirley Moyers; five music videos directed by Adam Bernstein with intros (including “Ana Ng” and “Don't Let's Start”), and four music videos for “Brave New World” (including “Dan vs. Cog” and “Older”); 16 raw footage and interview segments; two songs “Live From the Polish National Home”; Easter eggs; and a trailer. Bottom line: a fun and generous extras package for a fine profile.] (K. Lee Benson)