The release of the Jonas Brothers’ movie — and its disappointing box office returns — raised a troubling question in my mind, having to do with the motion picture business of late: Where have all the great concert films gone? Seriously, it has been years since adults were last treated to a big, rockin’, and really good movie featuring a top act like Talking Heads (Stop Making Sense), Prince (Sign o’ the Times), or Madonna (Truth or Dare). Yeah, yeah, I know we’ve had supersized extravaganzas featuring the JoBros and Miley Cyrus recently. But, c’mon, we’re grownups here. And the occasional Rolling Stones/U2 IMAX stunt hasn’t helped the cause much, either. (I mean, personally, I wouldn’t necessarily welcome a Coldplay concert flick, but it would be a start.)
So, really, what gives? Why do you think major concert movies have generally gone the way of, er, Talking Heads? What current artists are primed to help regenerate the genre? And what are some of your favorite concert films? Here’s a clip from one of mine…
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I thought “Shine a Light” was among the best concert films ever. And I am not a big Stones fan. Also the Neil Young concert movie from ‘06 shot at the Ryman in Nashville was excellent. I would think that some of the directors who film narrative stories might enjoy the change of pace of a concert movie. Obviously, Demme and Scorcese did!
Continuing my train of thought from the Jimmy Fallon article, Justin Timberlake (or NSYNC, doing a reunion show/movie?!) would be a great subject. He’s funny and a good singer…I’m sure something could be worked out. I really like the NSYNC idea…hm…
Cheesy yet fun: ABBA the Movie
Ok: Led Zepplin: The Song Remains the Same
The Best:
U2 Rattle and Hum
Arrgh! A Music War
Depeche Mode: 101
The funniest:
The Ruttles
This is Spinal Tap
Technicality: FM
I’d like to see a concert film that would focus on the indie subterrenian music scene.
I love Gwen Stefani’s tour video, Harajuku Lovers Live. Great Visually and behind the scenes… I really hope thought that Britney’s current tour, Circus gets the DVD treatment.
Stop Making Sense – The Talking Heads
I saw the JB’s 3d movie! Honestly i thought it was a very enjoyable experience! Even to someone who isn’t a Jonas Brothers fan, it really gets your heart goin’ and you get wrapped up in all the exitement all over again! I think that no matter who you are you will enjoy this film.
(not to mention: GREAT 3d! It was like they were RIGHT THERE!)
Great job guys!
Uh, Rolling Stone’s “Shine a Light” just came out last year. One of the greatest concert films I have ever seen. Do your homework. It’s not about the concert films. It’s about Jonas Brother sucking.