Watch Neil Young - Under Review 1966 - 1975

Neil Young - Under Review 1966 - 1975 is a 2007 documentary film that explores the early years of Canadian musician Neil Young, from his start in the band Buffalo Springfield to his solo career in the mid-1970s. The film features interviews with music journalists, critics, and musicians who provide commentary on Young's music and its impact on American folk and rock.

The film is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a specific period of Young's career. The first chapter, "Buffalo Springfield," covers the band's formation and their brief but influential run in the 1960s. Young's songs "For What It's Worth" and "Mr. Soul" are prominently featured, as are his collaborations with bandmates Stephen Stills and Richie Furay.

The next chapter, "Solo Career," covers Young's departure from Buffalo Springfield and his subsequent solo work. The film examines his early albums, such as Neil Young and Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere, and highlights key songs like "Cinnamon Girl" and "Down by the River." The chapter also discusses Young's decision to form the band Crazy Horse, which would become his primary backing group for many years.

The film's third chapter, "Struggle and Fame," focuses on Young's mid-1970s output and his increasing commercial success. The chapter explores his hit albums Harvest and After the Gold Rush, and features interviews with musicians like David Crosby and Graham Nash, who worked with Young during this period. The chapter also delves into Young's tension with his record label, which he felt was compromising his artistic vision.

Throughout the film, commenters weigh in on Young's place in the music world and his influence on subsequent generations of artists. Writer Clinton Heylin argues that Young's music stood out during a time of "superficiality and excess" in the industry, while journalist Nigel Williamson praises his ability to "channel the American psyche." Musicians like Robbie Robertson, Nils Lofgren, and Slim Jim Phantom also provide their perspectives on Young's impact on their own careers.

The film is rich with archival footage of Young's performances, including some rare clips that are sure to delight fans. The film also includes photographs and album covers, which provide visual context for the music being discussed. Interspersed throughout the film are brief segments in which a microphone is passed around a circle of people, each of whom shares a personal memory or anecdote about Young.

Overall, Neil Young - Under Review 1966 - 1975 is an engaging and informative tribute to one of rock's most enduring figures. The film does a good job of balancing critical analysis with personal insight and features a mix of familiar and lesser-known voices. Fans of Neil Young will find much to enjoy here, but even those less familiar with his work will come away with a deeper appreciation of his legacy.