Watch The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead: A Classic Album Under Review

The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead: A Classic Album Under Review, released in 2008, is a documentary that explores and celebrates one of the most iconic albums of all time. The film features interviews with critics, music industry professionals, and members of The Smiths, including Thomas Arnold, Craig Gannon, Johnny Rogan, and Stephen Street, who provide insight into the making and impact of the album.

The documentary delves into the social and political context of the 1980s, when The Queen Is Dead was released, and how it became a symbol for the youth of the time. The Smiths were known for their intelligent lyrics and the film explores the ways in which they tackled issues such as class, sexuality, and identity through their music.

The Queen Is Dead is often cited as The Smiths' best album, and the film shows how it pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music. The documentary examines the album as a whole, going through each track and exploring the themes and messages behind the songs.

The film provides a detailed look into the recording process of the album, including rare footage and interviews with producer Stephen Street. Street talks about the technical aspects of the recording, but also emphasizes the importance of the creative input of the band members, who were given the freedom to experiment with different sounds and ideas.

The film also includes interviews with musicians who were influenced by The Smiths and The Queen Is Dead. These include Noel Gallagher of Oasis, who talks about the impact the album had on his own music and the wider Britpop movement. Other musicians featured include Andy Rourke of The Smiths, Mike Joyce of The Smiths, and Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order.

Throughout the film, the impact of The Smiths and The Queen Is Dead on popular culture is explored. The documentary looks at how the band has influenced fashion, with their iconic frontman Morrissey known for his distinctive style. The film also examines the ways in which The Smiths have been referenced in popular culture, including appearances in films like 500 Days of Summer and TV shows like The Simpsons.

The documentary provides a rich and engaging exploration of one of the most important albums of all time. It celebrates the music of The Smiths and provides insight into the creative process behind The Queen Is Dead. The interviews with members of the band and industry professionals offer unique perspectives on the album, and the film succeeds in capturing the spirit of the 1980s and the cultural significance of The Smiths.

Overall, The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead: A Classic Album Under Review is a must-watch for fans of The Smiths, lovers of rock music, and anyone interested in the cultural impact of music. The documentary is a loving tribute to a seminal album and a band whose influence continues to be felt today.