Shine a Light at the BFI IMAX

The opening 20 minutes or so of "Shine a Light" captures the build-up to the main event, with some intimate and amusing behind the scenes footage centring on the preparation of the concert and the planning of the concert documentary. Following on from this is some more pre-concert footage from the day of the performance, which sets the scene for a dynamic launch into the show.

The film predominantly concentrates on the performance but is also interspersed with old interview clips which nicely break up the film, adding a touch of humour to the proceedings – a good example being a clip from an interview Mick Jagger conducted in the Far East with the interviewer misunderstanding a joke. There are prophetic montages as well from the 1960s, when Mick Jagger answers with an assured yes when asked whether he can see himself performing in his 60s.

The group are captured performing classic hits to a responsive and formal
crowd such as Satisfaction and Jumping Jack Flash, but many of the songs featured would probably not be recognisable unless you are a hardcore Stones fan. The group also perform respective duets with Jack White of the White Stripes and Christina Aguilera.

Great camera work allows close shots of the group creating a personal environment that you wouldn't normally get at a concert. Music lovers and Rolling Stones fans should enjoy this film which really acts as a homage to the group, so catch it at the Imax cinema now.