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Becoming Led Zeppelin documentary focuses on early years
The Imax film highlights the band's rise while omitting darker elements of their history.
The new Imax documentary presents a sanitized view of Led Zeppelin's early years.
Becoming Led Zeppelin overlooks important parts of the band's story
Becoming Led Zeppelin is a documentary that focuses on the band's formative years, reaching up to their 1970 performance at the Royal Albert Hall. The film, directed by Bernard MacMahon and Allison McGourty, features interviews with the surviving band members and avoids many of the more scandalous aspects of their history. Critics note that while the film highlights their artistic vision, it omits darker and more controversial elements that are well-known from Stephen Davis's biography Hammer of the Gods. The documentary aims to explore the band's influences, showcasing their ascent in music without diving into the chaotic lifestyle often associated with rock bands of that era.
Key Takeaways
"Becoming Led Zeppelin feels like an antidote to Davis’s tell-all."
This highlights the film's intention to present a softer narrative of the band's history.
"By projecting footage of civil-rights protests alongside Zeppelin, the film implies a connection to modern concerns."
This points out an attempt to contextualize the band's relevance, though some view it as unconvincing.
"I strongly recommend not waiting until VOD to experience in theaters what may be the best that Led Zeppelin has ever sounded on film."
This recommendation emphasizes the strength of the film's sound design and the unique cinematic experience offered.
This documentary represents a growing trend in music histories that prefer polished narratives over messy realities. By focusing solely on the band members' perspectives and avoiding more sensational stories, Becoming Led Zeppelin offers a version of history that might please fans but risks leaving out crucial elements. This raises questions about how we choose to remember cultural icons. Fans may appreciate the artistic insights, but they might also feel shortchanged by the absence of a well-rounded portrayal of rock and roll's complexities.
Highlights
- This film offers a PG version of rock history.
- A sanitized view leaves out the messy realities of fame.
- Can Becoming Led Zeppelin satisfy both fans and critics?
- The documentary might be compelling, but it's incomplete.
Risk of upsetting fans and historians
The documentary's sanitized portrayal excludes significant parts of Led Zeppelin's legacy, which may lead to public backlash from both devoted fans and music historians who value a complete narrative.
As music documentaries evolve, audiences must navigate between glamorized portrayals and the truth.
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