I don't think 'Sugar Man' is a music doc any more than 'The Social Network' is about computers. It just happens to have the best soundtrack ever.

Malik Bendjelloul’s quote reflects his perspective on the documentary "Sugar Man" and its focus on the story behind the music, rather than just being a traditional music documentary. He draws a comparison to "The Social Network", suggesting that, while it involves computers, it is not solely about them. Similarly, "Sugar Man" tells the story of Rodriguez, a musician whose music became a cultural phenomenon, but Bendjelloul argues that the film's true essence lies in its exploration of humanity, not just the music itself. The music is integral, but it is not the primary subject.

By saying it "just happens to have the best soundtrack ever," Bendjelloul highlights how the soundtrack of "Sugar Man" plays a significant role in amplifying the narrative but is not the main focus. The film is about discovery, legacy, and the search for a lost artist, with the music acting as a powerful backdrop to the emotional and inspiring story. This suggests that the film transcends being just a documentary about music; it’s about personal journeys and the unexpected impact art can have across different cultures.

Bendjelloul’s statement also speaks to the nature of documentary filmmaking, where the subject matter can often serve as a means to explore broader themes. In the case of "Sugar Man," the focus is on the mysterious rise of Rodriguez’s career and the profound effect his music had in South Africa, illustrating how a documentary can be about much more than just the surface subject—in this case, music.

The quote originates from Bendjelloul’s reflections on "Sugar Man", a film that won critical acclaim for its storytelling and its portrayal of Rodriguez’s life and music. The documentary itself blends elements of music, mystery, and inspiration, and Bendjelloul’s comment emphasizes that the film's strength lies in its narrative, which uses the soundtrack to enhance the emotional depth of the story rather than making it a film solely about the music itself.