I didn't mean to watch this film. I thought I was going to see Byzantium, but walked into the wrong screen. I should have known something was up, as there were only ten other people in there, all middle aged men in big coats sitting on their own. I joined them, and ate a sandwich before the film started (it was lunch time). We all looked quite shifty.
I'm not a Stone Roses fan, and would never have watched this film deliberately. I know all of their songs though, and quite enjoyed it. Here's a brief history of the band: In the 1980s they were mad kids who went round on scooters. They got really popular in Manchester, a few of them left, and they released a massive album. Then they had a six year legal wrangle, released an acrimonious second album, and split up for twenty years.
The director, Shane Meadows, is obviously a massive fan, and it was more of a tribute than a documentary. The sort of thing that might be released if they all died. I liked that he put himself into the film, and we got to see his face, rather than pretending we were magically behind the scenes without any cameras present. In fact, I think Shane is the main interviewee, as the band never talk to him.
The best bit is the build up to a special free comeback gig in Warrington. They give away free tickers if you bring along old merchandise, and loads of the fans are interviewed being really excited. Inside the gig the atmosphere is brilliant, and rather than clips we get complete songs, which sound great.
After this high the other gigs, on the European tour, look like hard work. There's one bit of drama when the comeback stalls in Amsterdam, when the drummer decides to go home. Instead of talking to the band Mr Meadows just interviews himself, saying that he really hopes they get back together (again), which they do.
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