Concert For George Reviews and Reactions

[FPSHOT]

We open a new topic for reviews.

Abbey Road's newspage has various updates, almost daily, so I will link those, and members from Beatlelinks who go are asked to give their review here too.

Ofcourse reactions to the reviews are welcome too.

The latest update at Abbey Road's newspage has some links to articles too. The reviews are interesting to read, not one is alike.

http://abbeyrd.best.vwh.net/news/911georgeallstartribute.html

[beatlebangs1964]

Thanks for the link, Rob!

I LOVE Dhani's answer to the doctor's comment "humor." That sounds like the kind of thing George himself might have said. That quote in your sig brings SUCH a graemlins/smile1.gif to my face.

One thing I wanted to add about George is that I think a large part of his appeal is that he was always so well loved. Experiences shape a person and that person's general approach in life. The fact that George was plainly well loved from the outset comes through in his work and in his deep devotion to his beliefs and to his talents as well as his humility. Small wonder I love George.

Still, I wish this film was playing in my area.

[Savoy Truffle]

Yes, thanks for that link FP! images/icons/smile.gif Some great reviews and touching comments from people who were there! Makes me really wish I lived somewhere near where this is playing. I'll just have to look forward to the DVD! images/icons/smile.gif

I'll make sure I have lots of tissues handy.

[HMVNipper]

Here's the review from the New York Daily News. It is a short one, but the reviewer, Jami Bernard, gave it three stars out of four. Not bad! images/icons/smile.gif

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/story/123005p-110500c.html

Friday, October 3rd, 2003

Concert for George

Running time: 108 mins. Rated PG-13: Some risqué humor. At Manhattan AMC Empire Times Square, Chelsea 19th Street, Village Quad Cinemas.

George Harrison obviously couldn't be there for "Concert for George," a gentle, spiritual musical tribute to the late Beatle. But on the stage is the closest thing - Harrison's teenage son Dhani, who, with his mop-top hair, guitar and shy manner, looks heart-stoppingly like his dad. In certain shots of this loving, all-star sendoff, the aged Paul and Ringo are joined by this mini-George, looking just as George looked when he joined the Beatles, which makes this concert film, directed by David Leland, all the more poignant.

An obviously moved Eric Clapton organized this get-together at the Royal Albert Hall last November. The lineup, as eclectic as Harrison's musical tastes and moods, includes such performers as Tom Petty and Joe Brown, a huge Indian ensemble playing a piece created for the event by Harrison's sitar teacher, Ravi Shankar, and a comedy sketch by Monty Python with Tom Hanks joining in.

Of them all, only McCartney looks out of place, perhaps mistaking the venue for Vegas. There in a nutshell could be the answer to why the Beatles broke up.

- Jami Bernard

[HMVNipper]

And here is the one from tne NY Times:

http://movies2.nytimes.com/2003/10/03/movies/03GEOR.html?pagewanted=print&position=

October 3, 2003
MOVIE REVIEW | 'CONCERT FOR GEORGE'
Friends Pay Tribute to a Fallen Beatle
By STEPHEN HOLDEN

The sweet, solemn music of George Harrison, who died two years ago, has rarely sounded more majestic than in the sweeping performances of the enlarged star-studded band that gathered in London at Royal Albert Hall on Nov. 29 to commemorate his legacy. And "Concert for George," David Leland's moving documentary of that event, mirrors the elegiac happy-sad quality of music that distilled the more spiritually heady aspirations of a segment of old-time hippie culture.

Revisited three decades after most of them first appeared, Harrison's best-known songs, which adapted the mantric drone and modal angularity of Hindu devotion into highly melodic pop, have an inescapably nostalgic ring. Nowadays that kind of incense-flavored dreaminess has been swept to the farthest margins of contemporary pop.

Harrison believed that music was a universal language that could bridge cultures and potentially heal the world. Even his lighter songs often had a hybrid East-West flavor emanating from Harrison's slide guitar, which echoed the sitar of his mentor Ravi Shankar.

Most of Harrison's best-known songs are included in the film, among them "If I Needed Someone," "Taxman," "Isn't It a Pity," "Something," "Beware of Darkness," "All Things Must Pass," "My Sweet Lord" and "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." They're interspersed (and sometimes interrupted) by the terse but affectionate reminiscences of the musical guests, most of whom were his lifelong friends. Eric Clapton, the concert's musical director and dignified M.C., is lead vocalist and guitarist on several numbers. Joining him are Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne and Billy Preston, among others.

The Monty Python troupe, who Harrison believed inherited the spirit of the Beatles after their breakup, appear in costume to perform "The Lumberjack Song," the troupe's comic ode to macho cross-dressers, with Tom Hanks in the supporting chorus line of Canadian Mounties. Later in the concert, Mr. Shankar, now frail, dedicates a short composition, "Arpan," to Harrison, whom he remembers as being like a son.

The reminiscences are upbeat and playful. Mr. Petty recalls how the Traveling Wilburys' song "Handle With Care" was written by committee in Bob Dylan's garage, with one member after another of the one-shot supergroup taking turns throwing out lines. Sir Paul recalls Harrison's fondness for the ukulele and leads off a rendition of "Something" on the uke that later segues into a fuller orchestral arrangement.

But the concert's most joyful moment is Mr. Starr's rousing version of "Photograph," the 1973 hit he wrote with Mr. Harrison, which prompts the entire audience to sing along. The moment is a poignant reminder of the communal ideals that the Beatles (together and separately) embodied for a generation now entering its 50's. But even at the height of it all, Mr. Harrison saw beyond Beatlemania and pop stardom when he asserted, in a tone of acceptance rather than bitterness, "All thing must pass."

Directed by David Leland
Not rated, 96 minutes

[Magill]

Originally Posted By HMVNipper:
Of them all, only McCartney looks out of place, perhaps mistaking the venue for Vegas. There in a nutshell could be the answer to why the Beatles broke up.
<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">OUCH! graemlins/laugh2.gif

[HMVNipper]

Originally Posted By Magill:
</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Originally Posted By HMVNipper:
Of them all, only McCartney looks out of place, perhaps mistaking the venue for Vegas. There in a nutshell could be the answer to why the Beatles broke up.
<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">OUCH! graemlins/laugh2.gif </font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">I purposely didn't comment on that... images/icons/wink.gif

[Magill]

Couldn't help not commenting on it, Susan. It made me burst out laughing! graemlins/laugh5.gif I visualized Paul in a Tom Jones outfit or worse yet, Elvis ala the '70's.

[ Oct 03, 2003, 02:46 PM: Message Edited By: Magill ]

[sourmilkpinky]

Well rest assured he didn't look like that, but I agree he did look 'out of place' and uncomfortable.

Yes, I just got back from watching it. Wonderful. Touching. A Little Tear-jerking. I didn't use the whole box of kleenex though.

I know Hari's Chick is planning a review and I hear took notes so I won't go to far into a review just a few opinions.

It was 'eerie' seeing Dhani on stage singing those songs. Enough resemblence to make the heart skip a beat even for an old lady like me. He was strong, attentive, warm .... yes an amazing person there I think.

I wish Olivia had been able to say a little more I would have liked to 'get to know her' a little better. It made me sad for her.

Eric did a fine job with the 'mc',direction job. I thought it odd to hear him sing 'Something' though.

I wasn't to fond of the version of 'Taxman' by Tom Petty though.

I kept thinking I wish they would insert a few clips of George singing during the songs, but then I realized that, no, I doubt George would have wanted that.

It was a Beautiful celebration of George's music,not his life, not his body, but what he found important, the soul of his music.

Can't wait for the dvd.

[lennonluvr9]

Thanks for posting the link! it had a link to some cool pics as well!

[beatlebangs1964]

Milk,

You lucky person!

I saw Dhani, et al. on the "Today" show this morning and yeah, he does indeed look a lot like George. He even has great hair, although George did have plenty of waves in his. (I guess everybody knows I love his hair). Dhani is a talent in his own right and I would think that actually seeing him performing George's songs live would be a pleasant, surreal and very intense experience.

Thanks for the links folks and I wish I had that dvd!

[ Oct 03, 2003, 08:40 PM: Message Edited By: beatlebangs1964 ]

[Savoy Truffle]

Me too, BB. images/icons/smile.gif

Originally posted by Magill:

Couldn't help not commenting on it, Susan. It made me burst out laughing! I visualized Paul in a Tom Jones outfit or worse yet, Elvis ala the '70's.
<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">graemlins/laugh5.gif That would be quite a sight. graemlins/laugh5.gif

Oh, that Paul! images/icons/smile.gif

[Hari's Chick]

Sorry, you guys, but here goes...better a bit late than never. images/icons/wink.gif I hope. images/icons/smile.gif

First off, I felt so lucky when my buddie emailed me and I was able to get tickets to a Thursday night premiere in Santa Monica. Yay! It was through Chris Carter, a private show for the fans on the email list for Breakfast with the Beatles on FMtalk 97.1 Sunday mornings. images/icons/smile.gif He originally had just asked for a few spare tickets, but was asked did he want a whole theater for his own! He did not have time to announce it on the show, so he just did it special via email. It was so very nice. He said hello to everyone and he is a very nice man.

Arriving at the theater, there was a Hare Krishna fellow outside the theater, chanting the manta and playing instruments. He really had some spirit I'll tell you, and was the perfect primer for a fantastic evening.

I felt pretty good about the whole thing...strong and like I could get through it without too many tears. Well, the lights dropped and the Concert for George logo was up, and the quote from Bhagavad Gita "There was never a time when I did not exist nor you...nor will there come a time when any of us cease to be~~~ Sri Krishna"...and then, about 15 seconds into the movie, the tears came. The whole movie was not just a tribute...it was something much more...it is so profoundly special.

Olivia lit these beautiful candles. The concert began...with the beautiful Indian backdrops and this lighting which was so wonderful. There was absolute attention to every detail.

Jeff went into "I Want to Tell You" as the opener. His voice was amazing and strong...the music was full and right away I could sense his hand in the production of the event, and it's movie release. George once said there was a difference between a good song and a good record. Jeff makes the record, the music it's very best...so each song is also a perfect recording. He looked so nice, wearing George's hat and his big Jeff hair peeking out from under it. There was so much love from Jeff.

Next Eric went into If I Needed Someone. He did a fantastic job, I feel, really capturing the song's original spirit. While he sang..as the camera went around, it was so easy to see how much each player was playing with this tremendous love and enthusiasm for George. Ray Cooper was there, and he was being so enthusiastic! Throughout the show, glimpsing him, he was so in the moment each time, and just filled with this spirit. In a more reserved way, the backup singers had this same glow also, this was no ordinary show and love was radiant.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers came out next...Tom was dressed up for the occasion and even brushed his hair!!! images/icons/smile.gif He did Taxman...and his kinda whiney type lovable Tom style I thought made the Taxman even more villainous.

They took several oportunities to 'take the (movie) audience' backstage. They chatted with Eric Clapton several times and we got to see the musicians hanging out....EC said some words about George which rang true and will make you all laugh, possibly through some tears, and it became once again so clear the love these two shared and still share. Dhani, backstage, was wearing George's old "Stamp Out the Beatles" sweatshirt. images/icons/smile.gif Dhani is so wonderful to watch and just to see...he seems like such a LOVE.

Onstage Dhani wore the white Indian shirt everyone has no doubt seen in the pictures and looked wonderful...maybe this is George's shirt from the Fabs trip to India? It looks very much the same. He looks so much like his Dad. images/icons/smile.gif But he also is pure Dhani...he has this beautiful presence.

Dhani, Tom, and Jeff all came out for Handle With Care. It was fantastic...Jeff took over Roy's part...and did an awesome job. Tom gave us a peek into the songs conception...which I clearly remember but am not telling images/icons/tongue.gif (You all have to go see the movie to find out!) Again, I have to mention Ray...he was great.

Ringo was next to sing...Photograph and Honey Don't. Photograph...he said the words mean something different to him now....and yes, it was time again for a good cry at this part. Honey Don't Ringo did because of George's love for Carl Perkins. He said something like, "What can I say~ I loved George and George loved me"...and you can see EC in the back...and he has this look of such fondness, I think, for Ringo who is so so at ease with himself. Ringo just takes such amazing 'weight of the world' off your shoulders just by talking. images/icons/smile.gif Ringo was ... RINGO!

After Ringo we went backstage with the Pythons. Tom Hanks was there also. And, to hear the exchange, you have to see the movie! But one thing which was so funny was when they talked about how it was George's belief that when the Beatles broke up, the spirit of the Bealtes went into Monty Python! hahaha They did Sit On My Face...and at the end...haha, was their ends. images/icons/smile.gif I remember George saying after Roy passed how he respected him for knowing all the words to Sit On My Face, haha...so it must have been a real fave of George's. graemlins/wink2.gif Next they did a little speech tribute to George... then, the Lumberjack Song!
Again so perfect...with George saying, I'm not a musician, I'm a Lumberjack. images/icons/smile.gif Perfect Python choice!

John Brown came out and did a beautiful version of Here Comes the Sun. Everyone was very into this part...the audience, so much joy and celebration through the air.
He had a mandolin as he came out...but I don't remember him playing it?

Next was one of my two favorite musical part...SAM BROWN doing Horse to the Water!!!!! Mr Capaldi and Jools Holland came out to assist here. I cannot say enough good things about this moment in the movie. I had CHILLS all down my arms...up my neck...through the entire song! She really stole the show with that AMAZING voice of hers!!! Really, really such a gifted woman! She was very sexy, too, for all you guys. images/icons/smile.gif

EC came out...and did Beware of Darkness and his favorite George song, Isn't It A Pity...which is also George's favorite, when asked in the ATMP rerelease interview. EC said he prefers George's 'innocent' songs, like Pity, because they come so much straight from the heart. Billy Preston helped out on this one, too. The slide solo was done by Marc Mann (from Brainwashed) and EC took the second solo near the ending...and changed it a bit interestingly, and (while EC sometimes get mechanical IMO) this time he played right from the heart, so perfectly executed.

Who can possibly follow Sam Brown and EC??? Only Paul could manage and well he did. I think he looked very very nice! He was in a kind of dark suit as I recall and did a very very very sweet version of For You Blue. He was NOT Vegas-y at ALL...he was pretty folksy in his beat, slightly more up tempo than the original as is done at shows sometimes...but very sweet!! Paul is so good at hiding his emotion, but in my opinion he was so much a big wonderful part of this blessed event. His heart really showed and it was so dear.

Paul played Something on the uke, as he had for George. images/icons/smile.gif This was a beautiful part. Then...EC joined in...on guitar and dualing vocals...but I wished it had just stayed Paul alone. I also felt funny (bad funny) about EC preforming George's love song which is often assumed to be about Patti. Something deep inside made me wonder if George would appreciate that? Well, I kept reminding myself it was truly a song about Krishna.

Ravi came out next...we actually got to 'go backstage' with he and Anoushka. I recalled how George had said Anoushka was music itself....he was SO correct! Ravi composed a beautiful piece for the evening just for George and the words meaning 'George was a lover of Krishna'. Tears, so beautiful. Ravi sat with Olivia, who mouthed along with this gorgeous chant, as Anoushka conducted. Anoushka looked SO SO SO beautiful!!! They chanted the Maha Mantra..."Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare...Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare" for some nice time, sublimating the entire show. I cannot express the beauty in words alone...

Anoushka then preformed....the Inner Light....and I must MARVEL at how her fingers graced across the strings like they were more fluid than actual matter. Jeff joined...

Keeping a very spiritual place, EC and Billy Preston went into My Sweet Lord and it was so special to see....the entire assembled cast of fine musicians there...Paul, Dhani (who played the guitar with such perfect ease and was so centered), everybody...all singing Hare Krishna! No matter what, I just think George would so love gifting us all with this...seeing this was such a blessing....

EC and the musicaians assembled finished with All Things Must Pass. Beautiful.

Then, at the end, is a beautiful surprise. Yes, bring lots and lots and lots of kleenex. This is a perfect tribute and celebration of this man we love so much. They did him perfect justice, and he deserves the very best....and that is just what this movie is. images/icons/smile.gif

The end. images/icons/wink.gif

[ Oct 04, 2003, 08:09 AM: Message Edited By: Hari's Chick ]

[Magill]

Awww. Thank you so much, HC, for writing that detailed (but, not too much! images/icons/wink.gif ) review. I am so looking forward to seeing this tomorrow. I cannot tell you of my enthusiasm right now. images/icons/smile.gif

[FPSHOT]

HC, a wonderful review, one can see your heart was watching too graemlins/smile1.gif

It makes me think I was there. Your description of the impressions of the musicians is great. But graemlins/smile1.gif I knew you would leave some open ends graemlins/tongue6.gif *

Tears were created to be shattered from emotion too and from what I hear from you there were lots of them.. which in this case is beautiful, as you say
"The whole movie was not just a tribute...it was something much more...it is so profoundly special."
That says it all.

What you say about Jeff is very true. That Cloud 9 interview you sent me has George telling about how special it was to work with Jeff. As songwriters as also as producers.

Fantastic review, thanks so much graemlins/kiss1.gif graemlins/thumbsup1.gif

Now I have to wait for the movie to run in any near theatre, London wouldn't be a bad spot to watch it. I guess before it hits the lower lands like this country I will have waited much too long.

[ Oct 04, 2003, 01:30 AM: Message Edited By: FPSHOT ]

[old_moon_shining]

Thanks HC, and everyone else too, for their contributions here. Looking forward to the DVD. Doubt if I'll ever get to see it on the big screen.

[joelcrowservo]

I'm with all who wont be seeing it on the silver screen; its not coming to Oklahoma. I'm not surprised, nothing ever does! Heres hoping I get that surround sound system for Christmas!!
And thanks for the wonderful review, I don't feel so bad about not seeing it on the big screen now.

[Siobhan]

Thanks for the review HC. You are right, there was an overwhelming feeling of love there that night. My view of the stage at the Albert Hall wasn't the greatest (mainly the tops of the performers heads) so I am really looking forward to seeing it all from a different angle, facial expressions and all. I want to see it in London when it starts showing here next week, but whether I will be able to or not is up in the air at the moment. I need to find out dates and venues first.

[Savoy Truffle]

Yes, thanks for that great review HC! images/icons/smile.gif

The way you describe it, ( and in your special way images/icons/smile.gif )I can see it in my mind.

Sounds sooo, sooo special. (I think of this sincerely, not in a Dana Carvey kind of way images/icons/wink.gif )

[ Oct 04, 2003, 10:34 AM: Message Edited By: Savoy Truffle ]

[Savoy Truffle]

Originally Posted By Hari's Chick:
Who can possibly follow Sam Brown and EC??? Only Paul could manage and well he did. I think he looked very very nice! He was in a kind of dark suit as I recall and did a very very very sweet version of For You Blue. He was NOT Vegas-y at ALL...he was pretty folksy in his beat, slightly more up tempo than the original as is done at shows sometimes...but very sweet!! <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">I'm glad he was not Vegas-y. I didn't really think he would be, especially here. So, to that reporter: images/icons/tongue.gif * In fact, I think he's been exellent in showing his emotions about George since his passing. Also, I've heard his performance here through downloads and I thought he did a great job. His For You Blue was indeed very sweet sounding. Of course, no one can do this song quite as sweet as George can! graemlins/heart2.gif

This is a perfect tribute and celebration of this man we love so much. They did him perfect justice, and he deserves the very best <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Amen, or should I say Hare Krishna, to that! images/icons/smile.gif

[friar-park]

A great, loving review HC!
Thanks for that.

FPSHOT, could you bring HC's review back to the top when the DVD is released? I think it would make a good starting point for that occasion.

[darkhorse]

Originally Posted By old_moon_shining:
Thanks HC, and everyone else too, for their contributions here. Looking forward to the DVD. Doubt if I'll ever get to see it on the big screen.<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Same words here, thanks. images/icons/smile.gif

[beatlebangs1964]

HC,

That was a beautifully written review. It kinda makes one feel as if they were there.

What really moved me about it was that it was written with love...that is what really makes it all the more effective.

Since the movie isn't coming to my town, I'll just have to wait for that dvd.

[FPSHOT]

Originally Posted By friar-park:
FPSHOT, could you bring HC's review back to the top when the DVD is released? I think it would make a good starting point for that occasion.<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">From a part of Friar Park to Friar Park; Good idea, I will graemlins/thumbsup1.gif

Btw; little note on behalf of Hari's Chick; where she writes Midge Ure, read Ray Cooper.

I really think of going to London (or Liverpool) for the film, reading this review I believe I won't have the same feeling from watching it via the DVD only, the following says it all;
"This is a perfect tribute and celebration of this man we love so much. They did him perfect justice, and he deserves the very best....and that is just what this movie is."

[FPSHOT]

http://abbeyrd.best.vwh.net/news/911georgeallstartribute.html

Some additional reviews of which some are really silly.

[Magill]

I saw this today. As I drove into the parking lot, what to my dismay do I behold but the marquee advertising it as: "Paul McCartney - Concert For George". I mean, what the bloody hell? Once I reasoned out that they probably did that to bring in the people to see it. HAH! I'll tell you what! I was 1 of 5, count 'em--F-I-V-E in the theater! And the only one under 50 years of age! graemlins/laugh5.gif I won't embellish or add to HC's review. I couldn't do it any better. I'll just say that it really was beautiful! It even inspired me to finally..finally buy ATMP (because the played alot off of it). Yes, I know. I know. I'm ashamed to admit to you all, that I never bought ATMP. I can't tell you why because I really don't know why myself. Always meant to, but after 30 some odd years I did. Now, I'm kicking myself for depriving myself of years without such a gem. Oh, well. All's well that ends well, right? For those of you that are unable to see it in the theaters, you're really in for a treat come November! images/icons/grin.gif

[ Oct 04, 2003, 11:37 PM: Message Edited By: Magill ]

[Hari's Chick]

Originally Posted By FPSHOT:
[QUOTE]Btw; little note on behalf of Hari's Chick; where she writes Midge Ure, read Ray Cooper.

<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">graemlins/laugh2.gif graemlins/laugh2.gif
I knew you wouldn't be able to let that go!!!
images/icons/tongue.gif images/icons/tongue.gif
graemlins/wink2.gif

[FPSHOT]

graemlins/blush3.gif * graemlins/blush4.gif * graemlins/blush5.gif

[Magill]

I feel I should acknowledge Mike Campbell's awesome guitar solo on Taxman! He stayed on to play with along on other songs, as well and did an awesome slide on was it, "Handle With Care"..? graemlins/thinker.gif Anyway, as much as I love Tom Petty, "Taxman" didn't suit him all that much. I dunno, maybe it'll grow on me in time.

[Rellevart]

Went to see this this afternoon....when did matinees start being $7.50??? Ouch, but it was worth every penny. images/icons/smile.gif I can't add much to HC's lovely review, but here are a few things I noted:

- Didn't care for Petty's kinda bluesy version of "Taxman" at first, but by the end I was kind of groovin' to it...

- Haha! The look on Dhani's face when he says "Uncle Ringo" was priceless. images/icons/smile.gif

- Ringo and Paul sharing a "12 Bar Blues" moment in "For You Blue" - sweet. images/icons/smile.gif

- At first I thought the female background singers were a bit cheesy, but boy, those ladies can SING.

- Found it interesting that HC's favorite part of the show was Sam Brown's take on "Horse to the Water" when that was probably my LEAST favorite song. Love the song, but didn't care for her approach at all. Everybody has different tastes! images/icons/smile.gif

- I don't normally like Indian music that much, but I enjoyed that song that Ravi wrote a lot.

- Stay through the credits. Really. Do it. images/icons/smile.gif

- One piece of advice for the reviewer who thought Paul was "Vegas-y"...maybe you'd do well to lay off the hallucinogenic drugs, they're bad for you. He was so subdued and schtick-free as to be nearly unrecognizable. "All Things Must Pass" really suited his voice well, I thought. images/icons/smile.gif

[ Oct 05, 2003, 05:17 PM: Message Edited By: Rellevart ]

[Barbara]

Some points that I would like to make about the movie even though HC pretty much covered it.

At the theater I saw it at, the sound was not that great. Maybe it was the venue, but I hope the DVD is better.

Jeff Lynne on "The Inner Light" was wonderful.
Arpan was just lovely and Eric's playing as usual was flawless.

"Uncle Ringo" was so marvelous on "Photograph" He brought such energy to his performance. I really thought he sang his heart out for George

Sam Brown, to me, brought the house down with "Horse to the Water." I thought she was Brilliant. Judging by the hall reaction they thought so too. What a voice. Is she Joe's daughter? Just curious?

Those crazy Phythoners. What a hoot. So good so see them together again (minus Cleese and Chapman). I bet this really was one of the hightlights of Hanks career!!!! I am still curious as to who were the mounties in the second row. I love what Gilliam said about George saying the spirit of the Beatles going into Python.

I did not care for the uke version of Something. I Was relived when they transitioned into the traditional version. No offense to Paul but I remembered that George told him it was too slow. However, Paul did contribute to a Beautiful version of ATMP. I think Paul was having a hard time keeping it together emotionally . just my impression.

Throughout the performance I could not help but notice the prescence of Dhani. When he first appeared on screen, someone in the audience gasped. Yes, he does look just like his father. Just a bit shorter. He more than held his own up there with the big guns. He speech at the end was so touching. George's friends have now become Dhani's friends. What a impressive young man he is. The most poignant moment for me was when Eric put his arm around Dhani during Joe Brown's song, " I'll See You In My Dream's" at the very magical ending.

A word about Eric. Many of people speculated why he did not comment about George after he died. People express their grief in different ways. This was Eric's way of doing it. Of all of George's friends to mount a tribute I could not imagine anyone else doing this. I always thought they were the best of best of friends. What a history they had together. Even though Paul and Ringo knew George longer, I don't think they knew George better. Eric gave his friend such a wonderful tribute. Yes, maybe George would "queer the pitch" but, deep down you know he probably would have loved it and been very grateful and appreciative.

[Rellevart]

Originally Posted By Barbara:
A word about Eric. Many of people speculated why he did not comment about George after he died. People express their grief in different ways. This was Eric's way of doing it. <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Ah, good point, Barbara, and one I meant to make too, but....um...forgot. graemlins/dunce1.gif Though you expressed it better than my notes, which read "And to anybody who was giving Clapton grief about not making a statement when George passed away, watch this film and shut the **** up." images/icons/smile.gif

[Magill]

Originally Posted By Rellevart:
"And to anybody who was giving Clapton grief about not making a statement when George passed away, watch this film and shut the **** up." images/icons/smile.gif <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">graemlins/laugh2.gif That pretty much says it all, Rell!

[Savoy Truffle]

Yeah, I wouldn't mind being reminded either.

[biglou114]

Originally Posted By Barbara:
A word about Eric. Many of people speculated why he did not comment about George after he died. People express their grief in different ways. This was Eric's way of doing it. Of all of George's friends to mount a tribute I could not imagine anyone else doing this. I always thought they were the best of best of friends. What a history they had together. Even though Paul and Ringo knew George longer, I don't think they knew George better. Eric gave his friend such a wonderful tribute. Yes, maybe George would "queer the pitch" but, deep down you know he probably would have loved it and been very grateful and appreciative.<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">The only other person I think had as good of a friendship was Bob Dylan

[FPSHOT]

Originally Posted By Rellevart:
and shut the **** up." images/icons/smile.gif <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">**** mmm probably an F word graemlins/thinker.gif Film ?

[ Oct 06, 2003, 12:23 PM: Message Edited By: FPSHOT ]

[Magill]

Could someone remind me why Bob wasn't there?

[Hari's Chick]

Here's a link about Bob, but he doesn't tell much. I look around a bit?

http://www.beatlelinks.net/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=10;t=000981

[Magill]

Maybe he didn't want to play second fiddle to Slowhand. graemlins/shakehead3.gif *Yeah, I forgot that Bob did do his own tribute, miniscule as it was. It really would've been nice to have 3 of the Wilburys there. *sigh* oh well....

[alliesun]

Thanks for the great review, HC...

I was pleased and surprised to find that one our local theatres was playing the film. Needless to say, I called up PaulsPrincess, and we caught the last showing. Friday night.. What an incredibly beautiful film... I have to say, I was deeply moved by the beauty, grace, and honor brought to the memory of such a wonderful man. As cliche as it sounds - I laughed, I cried (the first film I've shed a tear at in over ten years images/icons/smile.gif ), and fell in love with his music all over again.

"Daylight is good at arriving at the right time. It’s not always going to be this grey..."

[Savoy Truffle]

Originally Posted By Magill:
Maybe he didn't want to play second fiddle to Slowhand. graemlins/shakehead3.gif *Yeah, I forgot that Bob did do his own tribute, miniscule as it was. It really would've been nice to have 3 of the Wilburys there. *sigh* oh well....<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Or maybe he thought he might 'eclipse' the event images/icons/wink.gif haha. Whatever his reasons though, I too thought it would have been nice for him to make the effort for such a good friend as George. After all, George did it for him at his tribute.

[Hari's Chick]

Originally Posted By alliesun:
Thanks for the great review, HC...

<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">You're welcome! It was my pleasure! images/icons/grin.gif It's great to see you around at the Palace, Allie!!

[Hari's Chick]

Originally Posted By Savoy Truffle:
And he gave his own little tribute to George by perfroming Something at his NY concert. Maybe we can think of that as his contribution to Concert For George. images/icons/smile.gif <font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Yeah, definitely. I want to find the bootleg or d/l of that one. By the way, a nice person on a Bob message board transcribed the intro to 'Something', which is....

BOB:"Alright, thank you, thank you. There's a Tribute going on, I guess it's next week or the week after, it's over in England for George Harrison. And y'know, there's all kinds of people around. . .I'm not quite sure who . . .but we can't make it. . .and I just wanted to do this song in remembrance of George. . . because we were just such good buddies . . ."

[Hari's Chick]

Oh, just a thought too...I have seen Bob several times in concert and he is not (when I have seen him) much of a talker. So, this little intro respresents quite some dialogue for Bob. That is pretty sweet, too.

[Savoy Truffle]

Thanks for that link HC. images/icons/smile.gif If you can find out anything more that would be great.

I'm sure Bob had his reasons, it just makes me a bit sad that he was not there. I'm sure he was there in spirit.

And he gave his own little tribute to George by perfroming Something at his NY concert. Maybe we can think of that as his contribution to Concert For George. images/icons/smile.gif

[FPSHOT]

Updates again at Abbey Roads's newspage including some words from Tessa Niles, one of the backing vocalists.

http://abbeyrd.best.vwh.net/news/911georgeallstartribute.html

[Hari's Chick]

graemlins/laugh5.gif Okay, so what IS a 'people carrier'?? Is this an English word...maybe is that like a person drawn carrage?

Yeah, nice reviews on Abbey Road. There is some similarity throughout...everyone loving the movie, but many surprised by how few people turned out.

I think partially that is because this is a pretty forgotten concept in ways, concert movies for the theater. Many stars release videos of their concerts, but not often in theaters. Last one that I recall in fact doing this was Rock Show. That was in what year?!

So, maybe folks just do not know, with the lack of promotion, what this is and is about?

It is so very much worth seeing. I bet the DVD will be a very top seller...and proving this movie, with some promotion, would have many more people showing up for it.

[ Oct 09, 2003, 10:45 PM: Message Edited By: Hari's Chick ]

[onosideboards]

Ok, I've avoided reading this topic before I saw the film because I wanted it to be a surprise. And I still haven't read the topic just to see how far off I am with my take on it. images/icons/wink.gif

Seriously, I thought it was the "most specialist" homage to George that could be. I'm even more excited for the DVD though because I have a bootleg of the show and I know some songs were cut. And some nice Paul dialogue about Dhani looking so much like a young George.

I cried several times. My favorite parts were Eric saying that he really organized the concert to help with his own grieving process. I also loved how he played at the end of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." He was truly feeling George's spirt right then. Oh, and how he nearly started crying during "Isn't It a Pity" (I think). Eric was my favorite "character."

I'm so glad they kept Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers down to one song. Sorry for offending anyone, but I took that oppportunity to visit the loo during "Taxman." Tom looks like a corpse and sounds terrible. Surprisingly, Jeff Lynne didn't annoy me as much as I thought he would. I rather liked his renditions.

Paul was very interesting to watch. I do hate how he got this grand special entrance near the end though. I have more to say about that but I'll keep it to myself. But I loved watching him show some emotion for once. He actually looked sad about losing George. And he was visiblly nervous. When you think about it, Paul had known George the longest out of everyone in that room.

And of course I loved that delightfully naughty "Sit on My Face." I wonder if that was a personal favorite of George's? tee hee. images/icons/smile.gif But what was with Tom Hanks? When they interviewed him I don't think he mentioned George at all, just Monty Python. Dumb.

I didn't know who most of the people were up on stage. I wish they would have introduced each one somehow. I also find it curious that they left out songs post ATMP, sans "Horse to the Water."

Oh, and I love Dhani's "Stamp Out the Beatles" sweatshirt during rehersals!

I leave you with a question: At one point, either during "Isn't it a Pity" or "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," there's a close-up of someone playing George's psychadelic Fender. Who was it? It was only for a split second and then nowhere to be seen again. Anybody else notice this??

Overall, I give it an A. Marvelous tribute.

[onosideboards]

I'd like to add this, which I forgot about at my last post:

It occurred to me while watching "Concert for George" last night that all those people still have to die. I also feel very lucky to be around in their near-twilight, but to think that they will all likely die in my lifetime really brought me down.

What will the world be like with NO more Beatles around? And I don't mean for their new music, I just mean to know they're around. What will happen to the Beatles legacy? Will it turn kitsch like Elvis? Very disturbing.

[ImaginePeace78]

I saw the Concert for George twice. It was great both times--worth paying 8 bucks for. Anyway, you know the last song that's played before the credits rolled. It was 'I'll See You In My Dreams.' Well, I was on WinMx tonight and I found the original version of that song. It's by a guy named Cliff Edwards and the song came out in 1930. There's ukelele in it (through most of the song) as well as an orchestra. It was really neat to hear the song at the concert first and then to listen to the original. I downloaded it and will include it on one of my future CD burnings. Just thought I'd let you all know about that song.
-Kristi

[Hari's Chick]

Originally Posted By onosideboards:
I'd like to add this, which I forgot about at my last post:

It occurred to me while watching "Concert for George" last night that all those people still have to die. I also feel very lucky to be around in their near-twilight, but to think that they will all likely die in my lifetime really brought me down.

What will the world be like with NO more Beatles around? And I don't mean for their new music, I just mean to know they're around. What will happen to the Beatles legacy? Will it turn kitsch like Elvis? Very disturbing.<font size="2" face="Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif">Don't be too down on that because we never know who will go first. Not to be morbid, but it is just true. No point to worry, it wastes a nice day and then in our gloom we may not look up in time to see...the underside of some bus! hehe images/icons/wink.gif

Best to enjoy, IMO, and listen to Ringo's advice to Stop and Smell the Roses! images/icons/smile.gif