Watch Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage

Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage is a documentary film released in 2010 that explores the music and career of the iconic Canadian rock band Rush. Directed by Sam Dunn and Scot McFadyen, the film features extensive interviews with band members Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, as well as other musicians, industry professionals, and fans.

Using a combination of archival footage, new interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the band's rehearsals and recording sessions, Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage traces the band's journey from its earliest days in the Toronto music scene to its status as one of the most enduring and influential bands in rock history.

The film provides a detailed portrait of each of the three band members, exploring their individual personalities, musical influences, and contributions to the band's sound. It also delves into the creative process behind some of the band's most famous albums, including 2112, Moving Pictures, and Signals, and the challenges they faced in trying to balance commercial success with creative integrity.

Throughout the film, the filmmakers capture the deep personal and creative connections between Lee, Lifeson, and Peart, who have been together since the mid-70s and have weathered personnel changes, critical slams, and industry upheavals together. The film also covers Peart's personal tragedies, including the deaths of his daughter and wife, and the impact they had on the band's music and legacy.

In addition to the band members themselves, Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage features interviews with a range of musicians and music industry giants, including Gene Simmons of Kiss, Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins, and Jack Black, who sings the praises of Rush with hilariously over-the-top enthusiasm. The film also includes footage of Rush's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013, one of the final public appearances by Peart before his death in 2020.

Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage is not just a film for Rush fans (though they will certainly love it). It's a comprehensive look at the evolution of a band that defied categorization and remained creatively vital for over four decades. Whether you're a musician, a music fan, or just someone who loves a good story, this film is an insightful and moving portrait of one of rock's greatest acts.

Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.4.