In 1971, four university students got together to form a band. Since then, that certain band called Queen have released 26 albums and sold over 300 million records worldwide. The popularity of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon is stronger than ever. Their story is a remarkable one, a narrative that covers early struggles, huge obstacles, success, arguments, breakups, triumph, tragedy and an enduring legacy – all against a backdrop of brilliant music and stunning live performances from every corner of the globe.
In this film, for the first time, it is the band that tells their story. Guiding us through an extensive archive full of hitherto unseen footage, the documentary reveals how four strong-minded individuals, all capable of writing massive hit songs, worked together so successfully for four decades.
Queen never did anything by halves – meaning their highs were massive, but their lows catastrophic. It is a compelling story told with intelligence, wit, plenty of humor and painful honesty.
But the band quickly learned that if reaching the top is tough, staying there is the biggest challenge of all. With a loss of focus in the studio, the decline in popularity in North America, increasing internal tension and a desire to pursue solo projects, it seemed as if the band had had its day.
Then came the performance from Mercury at Live Aid, and their record breaking Magic tour in 1986. Queen were propelled back amongst the very best. Rejuvenated, the world was once again at their feet, but then tragedy struck and threatened to tear the band apart. Featuring musical performances, previously unseen and rare footage, and intimate interviews.
9.58
Rating: 9.58/10 based on 72 votes cast.
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Because of some content somewhere this documentary is not allowed in the United States. I’m sure it will keep someone from making a few cents by not letting me see the documentary. Oh well. Screw ’em.
Borat & Bruno star Sacha Baron Cohen has signed on to play Freddie in a new biopic film. Shooting begins 2011.
Excellent documentary!
great documentary.
Growing up, I had Ladies and Gentlemen: The best of George Michael. On one of the disks is him singing “Somebody To Love”. I always knew it was a cover. I never imagined that I owned a part of his tribute concert. (The song was recorded from the concert). I thought it was a duet. Realizing it wasn’t a duet, and here I am crying like a baby, like I knew the man.
Forever in our hearts; always on our minds. <3
Amazing documentary, it gave me chills throughout. Legendary.
I lived through this by buying their vinyl and listening to them on NYC radio back in the 80’s, however, shamefully saying, I’ve never seen them. One of the GREATEST bands ever….period.
Queen, the thinking man’s rock n band.
In my opinion the best documentary on Queen. It has it’s focus on the music and the early period rather than just on Freddie Mercury’s private life and outrageous parties. It also has some really great previously unseen footage of the band during rehearsals and during recording sessions. If you love Queen and think you’ve seen it all, you should watch this documentary.
In my opinion the best documentary on Queen. It has it’s focus on the music and the early period rather than just on Freddie Mercury’s private life and outrageous parties. It also has some really great previously unseen footage of the band during rehearsals and during recording sessions. If you love Queen and think you’ve seen it all, you should watch this documentary.
I am in TOTAL agreement. A perfectly balanced documentary giving an unbiased perspective of one of our most talented and praised musicians/performer, Freddie and Queen. I watched until the ending credits. Flawless. MUST SEE.
…The Show still goes on, and the band’s legacy will keep on rocking us for generations to come! I drink to music that touches the soul!
An extremely well done documentary.
If you are a Queen fan this is a must see.