Beatlore

Beatlore is a documentary film celebrating the life and legacy of Derek Rieth. Derek's long struggle with bipolar disorder ended when he died by suicide on August 20, 2014 at the age of 43. To the outside world, Derek was best known for his 18 years of percussion work with the internationally acclaimed band, Pink Martini. But in Portland, Oregon he was deeply loved and respected by the music community, always collaborating with various artists. Since Derek's passing, numerous project files of unpublished music were discovered on his hard drive. The documentary follows Derek's sister, Heather Rieth, as she meets with Derek's band mates, collaborators and intimate circle of friends to better understand Derek's creative process to give her brother a legacy by releasing Derek's unpublished music. Heather has worked in the mental health field for many years. Having experienced suicide as a family member and treating patients as a psyche nurse, Heather is able to speak from both sides. In sharing Derek's story, she hopes to help individuals going through a difficult diagnosis and their family and friends who are supporting them on this journey. Beatlore will capture Derek's passion for music, his struggle with mental illness and his vibrant spirit that continues to influence generations of Northwest musicians.