Review of Shine a Light (2008) by Viginti T — 24 Aug 2009

From the electric opening scenes of backstage chaos, jumping from sets to the Stones to Scorsese and back again at breakneck speed you can tell this is going to be an interesting ride. Unfortunately though it's never again this good. Once the set begins the film devolves into a simple music DVD with only hints of documentary thrown in on occasion. While it could have done with much more time spent on information, interviews and the like , getting the most out of such a talented storyteller, it instead relies solely on the live performance to deliver the drama. Thankfully then the Stones don't disappoint, showing off through a varied set list why it is exactly they are such a well loved band.

(I am still baffled however by the exclusion of 'Gimme Shelter', given it's pedigree in Scorsese's work I never would have imagined it being left off the set list.).