Watch Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine

Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine is a 2021 documentary film about the iconic Canadian rock band, Triumph. The film chronicles the band's early beginnings in the late 1970s, their rise to fame throughout the 1980s, and their eventual breakup in the 1990s. The film is directed by Barry Davis, who previously directed the documentary Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, and it features interviews with all three members of Triumph: Rik Emmett, Mike Levine, and Gil Moore.

The documentary begins by detailing the band's origins in Toronto in the late 1970s. The three musicians had all played in different bands before forming Triumph, and they initially struggled to find success. However, after releasing their self-titled debut album in 1976, the band began to gain a following, particularly in their native Canada.

The film delves into the band's creative process, showing how they would come up with new songs and arrangements in the studio. It also explores the technical side of their music, highlighting the use of innovative guitar and drum techniques that helped to define the band's sound.

Throughout the 1980s, Triumph became one of the biggest rock acts in North America, selling millions of albums and packing out stadiums on tours. The film features footage from some of the band's most memorable concerts, including their performances at the US Festival in 1983 and the Montreal Forum in 1986.

Despite their success, the film also touches on the tension that developed among the band members over the years. Emmett, Levine, and Moore each had their own visions for the band's direction, and disagreements over creative decisions began to take a toll on their relationship. This eventually led to the band's breakup in the mid-1990s, which is explored in depth in the film.

Throughout the documentary, the three members of Triumph reflect on their experiences as musicians and on the legacy of their band. They discuss the challenges they faced as a Canadian act trying to break into the American market, the struggles of balancing creativity with commercial success, and the personal dynamics that can make or break a band.

The film also features interviews with a number of other musicians and industry insiders who provide insight into Triumph's impact on the rock world. These include producers and engineers who worked on the band's albums, as well as fellow musicians like Alex Lifeson of Rush and Ed Robertson of the Barenaked Ladies.

Overall, Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine is a comprehensive and engaging documentary that highlights the enduring legacy of one of Canada's most influential rock bands. The film serves as both a celebration of the band's music and a candid exploration of the challenges and tensions they faced along the way. For fans of Triumph and rock music in general, this documentary is a must-watch.

Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.