Watch Aerosmith: Rock For The Rising Sun

Aerosmith: Rock for the Rising Sun is a concert film documenting Aerosmith's 2011 tour of Japan. Directed by Casey Patrick Tebo, the film features footage from six different concerts as well as behind-the-scenes glimpses of the band. As the movie begins, we see Aerosmith arriving in Japan and preparing for their first show. Guitarist Joe Perry expresses his excitement to play for Japanese fans, while lead singer Steven Tyler reminisces about his past experiences in the country. The band members are shown rehearsing and fine-tuning their setlist, which includes classic hits like "Dream On" and "Walk This Way" as well as newer songs from their then-recent album, "Music from Another Dimension!"

The first concert featured in the film takes place at the Tokyo Dome. The energy in the arena is palpable as the band launches into "Mama Kin" and Tyler struts across the stage in his signature scarves and sunglasses. The crowd sings along to every word of "Livin' on the Edge" and "Cryin'," and the band seems to thrive on their enthusiasm. Guitarist Brad Whitford gets his moment to shine during his solo on "Last Child," while Hamilton's bass playing is featured prominently on "Sweet Emotion."

In between songs, the film cuts to interviews with band members and fans. One Japanese fan explains that Aerosmith's music helped him through a difficult time in his life, while another expresses her admiration for Tyler's stage presence. The band members reflect on their past experiences in Japan, including a memorable concert in 1977 where fans stormed the stage and stole their instruments. They also discuss the devastation caused by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, which occurred just days after their initial arrival in the country.

The second concert takes place in the city of Sapporo, and the band is clearly enjoying themselves on stage. Tyler dances and flirts with the audience during "Love in an Elevator," while Perry takes the lead on "Stop Messin' Around." During "Oh Yeah," Tyler dons a traditional Japanese happi coat and waves a fan while singing the chorus. The cameras pan over the crowd, capturing fans of all ages and backgrounds singing and dancing along to the music.

In addition to concert footage, the film also includes scenes of the band exploring Japan. They visit a traditional Japanese garden, sample local cuisine, and meet with fans at a meet-and-greet. Tyler in particular seems fascinated with Japan's culture and traditions, and his enthusiasm is infectious.

The third and fourth concerts take place in Sendai and Osaka, respectively. The band continues to deliver high-energy performances, with Hamilton and drummer Joey Kramer keeping the rhythm tight on "Rats in the Cellar" and "Combination." Perry shreds through his guitar solo on "What It Takes," and Irwin's keyboards add a new layer to the bluesy "Big Ten Inch Record."

As the tour draws to a close, the film returns to footage of the earthquake and its aftermath. The band members express their sympathy and support for those affected by the disaster, and Tyler dedicates a heartfelt performance of "Dream On" to the people of Japan.

The final concert is held in Tokyo once again, and the band goes out with a bang. Tyler struts out in a red sequined jacket for "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," while Perry and Hamilton trade guitar licks on "Train Kept A-Rollin'." The crowd sings and dances along to the final encore of "Sweet Emotion," and the band members take their final bows.

Overall, Aerosmith: Rock for the Rising Sun is a stunning showcase of one of rock's most iconic bands. The concert footage is electric, and the behind-the-scenes glimpses add a personal touch to the film. Fans of Aerosmith will love seeing their favorite songs performed in front of a passionate Japanese audience, and the film is a moving tribute to a country that has faced so much adversity.

Aerosmith: Rock For The Rising Sun is a 2013 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.