One unforgettable musical performance is the Who's gig on the Smothers Brother show, where they are introduced as a virtual unknown band to the country and play "My Generation." The song ends in a blaze of smoky destruction, as Pete Townshend repeatedly smashes his guitar on an amplifier, and Keith Moon defiantly kicks over his drum set, and the band leaves the stage. The audience is in an absolute stunned silence, not quite knowing how to react to what it has just witnessed. Finally there is a mere smattering of nervous applause. It is a delicious look at a band clearly ahead of its time. Whether or not you are a particular fan of The Who, this is a highly entertaining film. Who fans, of course, will enjoy it tremendously, but anyone interested in 1960s rock, British rock, or the 1960s pop culture scene in general will benefit from a viewing. One thing that really comes out is the intelligence and humor of the group. Townshend, arguably rock's most articulate spokesman, is his usual erudite self, even in the early days. And Moon, the maniacal drummer, is simply hilarious, particularly in a classic interview with Ringo Starr.
Oh yes, the music is also great. Some of the performances can be seen in other films; it is the interviews that I seem to remember most.
Oh yes, the music is also great. Some of the performances can be seen in other films; it is the interviews that I seem to remember most.