Watch Inside The Smiths

As the name suggests, Inside The Smiths from 2007 is a documentary film that seeks to delve deep into the inner workings of one of the most iconic bands in British music history. The Smiths were a Manchester-based band that came into prominence during the 1980s, and their music had a lasting impact on alternative music and culture around the world.

The film features interviews with several key players in The Smiths' story, including the band's former members Craig Gannon, Peter Hook, Mike Joyce, and Andy Rourke. Through their recollections and anecdotes, the film attempts to shed light on the band's beginnings, meteoric rise to fame, and eventual dissolution – all against the backdrop of 1980s Britain.

One of the most striking things about Inside The Smiths is the wealth of archival footage and photographs that are featured throughout the film. Fans of the band will relish the opportunity to see rare performance footage and candid shots of the band members during their heyday. However, the filmmakers also manage to paint a broader picture of the cultural and political climate of the time, showing how The Smiths' music reflected the feelings of disillusionment and dissatisfaction that were prevalent in British society at the time.

The interviews with the band members themselves are also a highlight of the film. Each of them offers unique insights into The Smiths' creative process and the relationships that existed between band members. Craig Gannon, in particular, provides a fascinating perspective on his time in the band – he was only a member for a short period, but his contributions were substantial, and his story has often been overlooked in other depictions of The Smiths.

Throughout the film, there's also a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The Smiths were a band that captured the imaginations of a generation, and one gets the sense that the people involved in making this film are keenly aware of the cultural significance of the band. Many of the interviewees speak wistfully about the Manchester of the 1980s and the sense of camaraderie that existed between the musicians, fans, and other artists who were part of the scene.

Of course, anyone who's familiar with The Smiths' story will know that the band's history is not without its controversies. The film doesn't shy away from these issues, and there are some frank discussions about the legal battles that have taken place over the years. However, the tone of the film is generally one of affection and admiration – it's clear that everyone involved has a deep respect for the band and what they achieved.

In summary, Inside The Smiths is a must-see for fans of the band, as well as anyone with an interest in music history. It's a carefully crafted documentary that manages to paint a rich and detailed portrait of a band that continues to capture the imagination of music lovers around the world. Whether you're a diehard fan or simply someone who appreciates good music and compelling storytelling, this film is well worth checking out.