Rolling Stones - Under Review: 1967-1969

Rolling Stones - Under Review: 1967-1969 is an engaging, thought-provoking 2007 documentary film that candidly delves into a crucially transformative phase in the career of The Rolling Stones. The period between 1967 and 1969 saw the legendary rock band go through a significant transformation that ultimately shaped their future in the music industry. The film brilliantly captures this watershed period, lacing it all with the group's electrifying music that has stood the test of time.

The film primarily revolves around the central protagonists of the band - Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman. The documentary offers a unique and intimate look into these stellar band members' inner workings and their power dynamics, all through the lens of those years (1967 to 1969). It was during this time that the band moved on from being a primarily blues-oriented group to adopting and incorporating a more experimental and diversified sound. This experimentation marked The Rolling Stones' turning point, steering them towards the direction of becoming one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

Famous personalities like Keith Altham, Thomas Arnold, Robert Christgau, and Merry Clayton are featured in the film, providing their expertise, experiences, and insights about The Rolling Stones, thereby making the documentary a treasure trove of information for fans and students of music alike. Keith Altham, a prominent music journalist, offers an insightful perspective on The Stones' journey and artistic evolution. Similarly, popular music critic Robert Christgau provides his knowledgeable observations on the band's shift in sound aesthetics, making the documentary a compelling exploration into the hearts and minds of a beloved band.

The film ably captures the historical context, the zeitgeist of the changing times, and the band's personal and professional evolution. Director Robert Christgau gives viewers a thorough look at the band's evolution, as they evolved from a start-up British rhythm & blues act, to trailblazers of psychedelic music, and finally, to one of the most revered rock-n-roll bands.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated not only to an abundance of Rolling Stones trivia and backstory. The documentary also includes an astounding selection of captivating archival footage - from eye-catching visual sequences of the band performing and recording to some thought-provoking interviews with the band members. This palette of images and sounds are interspersed between the critique and commentary provided by the experts, thereby engaging the audience and holding their attention throughout the film.

Moreover, the film also draws attention to the vital contributions of Brian Jones during this turbulent time, who sadly drowned in 1969, and how his influence within the band was dwindling during this era. This makes the film not just a critique and exploration of the band’s music, but also a poignant homage to a departed member.

Interestingly, the film also brings light to the band's run-ins with the law, rampant drug abuse, and chaotic personal lives during these years. It discusses the infamous Redlands drug bust involving Keith Richards and Mick Jagger that brought The Rolling Stones into a contentious relationship with the British establishment and media.

Rolling Stones - Under Review: 1967-1969 is musically lush, featuring several excerpts of the band's iconic music from this era, including classics like "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "Street Fighting Man". The auditory journey coupled with detailed narration makes the documentary a vibrant masterpiece.

In conclusion, "Rolling Stones - Under Review: 1967-1969" serves as an eye-opening account of a transformative period for one of the world’s most famed rock bands. Be it the intriguing band dynamics, the evolution of their music, or their exploration of different genres of music, this documentary has it all. It manages to effectively take the audience on a journey behind the scenes during a tumultuous time in the band's history and therefore, is undoubtedly a must-watch for all Rolling Stones fans and music lovers.