Matthew Roth’s Five Piece plunges viewers into the high-voltage, chaotic world of underground rock, following a hard-driving metal band on the brink of their last big opportunity: a major Battle of the Bands contest with a recording contract at stake. The story is equal parts adrenaline-fueled music drama and intimate psychological study, offering an unflinching look at ambition, creativity, and personal struggle.
At the center of this storm is drummer Brandon (Robert Paul Taylor), whose incredible talent behind the kit is matched only by the complexity of his inner life. Brandon lives with dissociative identity disorder, a condition that Roth treats with uncommon subtlety. Rather than leaning into exaggerated, melodramatic portrayals often seen in Hollywood, the film presents a grounded, believable depiction of multiple personalities. Brandon’s shifting identities are shown with nuance, making his internal struggle feel authentic without becoming sensationalized. Taylor’s performance is a standout, skillfully conveying the differences between Brandon’s personalities while maintaining a sense of vulnerability and humanity.
The impact of Brandon’s condition on his bandmates and relationships is another strength of the film. Five Piece thoughtfully examines how mood swings and personality shifts can ripple outward, affecting friendships, teamwork, and ambitions. It shows the ways people notice something is “off” but fail to fully grasp the depth of what’s happening, highlighting both the empathy and frustration of those closest to him. This approach lends the story a quiet realism and emotional weight, especially for viewers seeking to understand dissociative identity disorder in a sensitive, non-sensationalized way.
The supporting cast—Tom Williamson, Derek McLenithan, Ruby York, and Natalie Sutherland—bring energy and authenticity to the story, though some performances and scenes feel uneven. The pacing, particularly in the first act, can be slow, which may challenge viewers expecting a more conventional, fast-moving rock drama. Yet, these moments of quiet reflection allow the film to explore its psychological and relational themes with depth, making the eventual climactic performance feel all the more intense.
Musically, Five Piece is a thrill. The soundtrack pulses with raw energy, and the performances capture the chaotic exhilaration of underground rock. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the sacrifices, frustrations, and vulnerabilities behind the music, reinforcing the tension between chasing fame and staying true to oneself.
In the end, Five Piece is a rare blend of rock drama and mental health exploration. It may not be perfect in execution, but its honesty, emotional resonance, and educational value make it a compelling watch. For anyone interested in the realities of dissociative identity disorder, the challenges of artistic ambition, or simply the intensity of the rock world, this film delivers a thoughtful, visceral experience that lingers long after the final chord.
Jessie Hobson