Queen: How They Broke Free

Queen: How They Broke Free from 2017 is a deeply enthralling music documentary that revolves around the legendary British rock band, Queen. This documentary scrutinizes the formation and rise of the band and gives an in-depth exposition on their journey from being outsiders to global sensations.

Directed by Mick Ross, the film features an array of characters such as Rosie Horide, Paul Gambaccini, Paul Watts, Eric Hall who provide narration and insights into the band's journey. Two of Queen's members, Brian May and Roger Taylor are also part of the documentary, offering personal anecdotes and perspectives. The documentary also includes glimpses of the late lead singer, Freddie Mercury, and bass guitarist, John Deacon.

The documentary scours the origins of the band, starting with their formation in London, 1970 by Mercury, May, Deacon, and Taylor. It delves into each band member’s early life, their individual inspirations and influences that eventually culminated in the distinctive Queen sound.

The central narrative of the film follows the trajectory of Queen's rise against all odds. It begins with their initial struggle to secure music contracts and their refusal to conform to traditional music industry norms. It highlights Queen's determination and resilience to protect and nurture their unique sound, style, and identity, which played a paramount role in helping the band break free from the shackles of the conventional rock scene. This unwavering resolve eventually led the band to unimaginable heights of success and popularity that continues to resonate today.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to unseen footage of the band's backstage antics, live performances, recordings, and personal videos that brings to life Queen’s spirited world. The documentary efficiently leverages this treasure trove of footage and combines it with talking-head interviews from the band's friends, family members, band associates, and key music industry personnel. These people characterize the sheer relentless determination of a band that was met with early resistance and rejection but who held firm to their ideologies to eventually win the world over with their music.

Queen: How They Broke Free also acknowledges the pivotal role of Freddie Mercury, Queen's flamboyant frontman. Rare individual interviews of Mercury are fabulously woven into the narration, providing a touching tribute to a man who not only defined but truly transcended the rock genre. His unique stage presence, outlandish costumes, and powerhouse vocals are all big highlights.

Additionally, the extensive influence of Brian May, Roger Taylor, and the often underplayed role of John Deacon in the band's music and success are carefully examined and appreciated. The film reveals their extensive contributions to the band’s evolution, skillfully recognizing the distinct strengths of each, adding to the band’s multifaceted and dynamic sound.

Interestingly, the documentary transcends the realm of just a music documentary. It is infused with socio-political connotations and considerations. It underscores how Queen challenged and disrupted the stereotypes within the music industry, particularly those related to gender and sexuality. It also explores how Queen used their music as a platform for social commentary and resistance against societal norms, further enhancing their standing as trailblazers and game-changers within the music industry.

Queen: How They Broke Free is an intimate portrait of a band that defied expectations to create a unique sound that has stood the test of time. It is not just a journey of their wild ride to stardom but also an exposition on their hunger for artistic exploration and their belief in musicality without boundaries. In providing a deeper understanding of the music icon that is Queen, the film melds the poignant with the celebratory and gives us a peek into the lives and minds of these extraordinary musical pioneers. This is a 'must-watch' for all music lovers and those inspired by stories of resilience, creativity, and breakthrough success.