Watch The Format: Live at the Mayan Theatre

The Format: Live at the Mayan Theatre is a concert film from 2007 that captures the electric performances of the indie-pop band The Format. Comprised of lead singer Nate Ruess, multi-instrumentalist Sam Means, bassist Mike Schey, and drummer Mark Buzzard, The Format had gained a passionate following for their catchy, heartfelt songs and energetic live shows. This film showcases their talents and charisma as they perform in front of a sold-out crowd at the historic Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles.

The film begins with shots of the packed theater and the band members nervously preparing backstage. As they take the stage, the audience erupts in cheers and applause, and the band launches into the opening track, "The First Single." The energy is infectious, with Ruess bouncing around the stage and Means switching between guitar, keyboard, and trumpet. The sound mix is top-notch, allowing the intricate arrangements of their songs to shine through while still packing a punch.

Throughout the show, The Format works through a mix of old favorites and new tracks from their album Dog Problems, which had just been released that year. The crowd sings along to every word of "Mary Ann" and "Time Bomb," and the band members banter with each other and the audience between songs. At one point, Means admits that they're nervous because this is their biggest show yet, but they quickly shake off any nerves and continue to deliver a high-energy, tight set.

One of the highlights of the film is the band's performance of "Dog Problems," the title track of their new album. The song features a complex horn arrangement, which Means plays on trumpet while simultaneously playing guitar. The band nails the intricate parts, and Ruess's emotive vocals add to the song's emotional weight. The audience responds with rapturous applause.

Ruess also shows off his vocal range on the stripped-down ballad "Snails," which he performs solo on the piano. It's a quiet moment in an otherwise raucous show, but the audience remains entranced, hanging on every note. The film captures the intimacy of the moment without losing the sense of scale of the massive theater.

The concert film also includes behind-the-scenes footage of the band, including interviews and glimpses of their tour bus and soundcheck. We see the band's camaraderie and their dedication to their craft, as they work through arrangements and rehearse harmonies late into the night. The film balances these moments with the full-throttle energy of their live show, giving viewers a sense of both the band's personality and their musicianship.

Overall, The Format: Live at the Mayan Theatre is a must-see for fans of the band and anyone who appreciates catchy, heartfelt indie pop. The film captures The Format at their peak, delivering a passionate, energetic performance that will leave viewers wanting more. Whether you're singing along to every word or discovering their music for the first time, this concert film is a must-see.

The Format: Live at the Mayan Theatre is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.