Fans of most bands and singers would probably kill for this level of behind-the-scenes access, as Peter Jackson's three feature-length-parts documentary series assembles footage shot over January 1969, with the compelling frame of two weeks' songwriting rehearsals to create a live show (and a new Beatles album) at the end. The madness of this monumental task by a then-imploding band follows them daily with reasonable openness, as Paul McCartney tries to wrangle some kind of working discipline, George Harrison quits briefly, John Lennon is veering off on his own Yoko path (glued to his side throughout) and Ringo Starr just seems happy to be there, eventually leading to the controversial free concert on the rooftop of their new Apple Studios in London. Clearly missing their manager Brian Epstein and uncertain of their musical future and direction, this documentary series fascinates not only for the interaction between the band members but also to witness songs emerging through the writing and rehearsal process, such as Get Back, The Long And Winding Road, Carry That Weight and even an early incarnation of Lennon's Jealous Guy. What emerges is a curiously fascinating and absorbing insight into one of the biggest bands of all-time, lovingly and carefully curated, and what is does best is to show with ease all four of the band members as true musicians.
No comments:
Post a Comment