Photo credit: www.rollingstone.com
1972 documentary capturing band pre-Dark Side returns to theaters and IMAX on April 24
Pink Floyd has unveiled a new trailer for the remastered version of their landmark concert film, Live at Pompeii, set to hit theaters—including IMAX—on April 24.
This brief preview of Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII serves as a unique glimpse into the band’s live performance during a pivotal moment in their career, prior to the release of the iconic album The Dark Side of the Moon. Drummer Nick Mason remarked that the film is “a rare and unique document” that captures this transformative era for the band, enhanced through a recently discovered negative that improves both the visual and audio quality of the original 1972 film.
Lana Topham, the band’s Director of Restoration, expressed her joy over the recent recovery of the original 35mm cut negative, stating, “Since 1994, I have searched for the elusive film rushes of Pink Floyd At Pompeii, so the recent discovery was a very special moment.” The newly restored version features the complete 90-minute cut, integrating both the original performance footage and complementary documentary segments filmed at Abbey Road Studios shortly thereafter.
The documentary captures Pink Floyd showcasing their pre-Dark Side hits such as “Echoes,” “One of These Days,” and “Careful With That Axe, Eugene” in the stunning backdrop of an empty Roman amphitheater, near where the notorious volcanic eruption took place. The film also includes behind-the-scenes footage as the band recorded their celebrated album Dark Side of the Moon.
Renowned recording engineer Steven Wilson, who was brought in to remix the film’s soundtrack, reflected on his connection to the band: “Ever since my dad brainwashed me as a kid by playing The Dark Side of the Moon on repeat, Pink Floyd has been my favorite band. They are my ‘Beatles,’ deeply ingrained in my musical DNA.” He reminisced about seeing Pompeii in a local cinema from a grainy print, describing it as a powerful experience that defined his perception of innovative rock music. He expressed pride in remastering the soundtrack to align with Topham’s remarkable restoration, adding, “It looks like it could’ve been filmed yesterday.”
The restored Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII is scheduled for theatrical release on April 24, with a vinyl release of the live album set for May 2.
Source
www.rollingstone.com