Watch Roy Orbison: Black White Night 30

Roy Orbison: Black and White Night 30 is a musical concert film featuring legendary musician Roy Orbison, recorded in 1987 at the Cocoanut Grove nightclub in Los Angeles. The film, released in 2017 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the concert, showcases Orbison at his peak, delivering some of his greatest hits with a lineup of all-star musicians.

The concert, shot in black and white with a 9-camera setup, captures the essence of Orbison's raw talent and magnetic stage presence. The film opens with the audience settling into their seats as the band takes the stage, and Orbison walks out to thunderous applause that never wavers throughout the performance.

The concert includes many of Orbison's greatest hits, such as "Only the Lonely," "Crying," and "In Dreams," as well as some lesser-known tracks that still showcase his incredible range and vocal power. The musicians accompanying him are all top-notch, including Elvis Presley's former backing vocal quartet The Jordanaires, as well as guitarists James Burton and Bruce Springsteen's legendary sideman, Steven Van Zandt.

What makes this film so special is not just the music, but the way it is presented. The black and white visuals are stunning, adding depth and drama to the performance. The lighting is superb, with stark contrasts casting Orbison in shadow as he sings, creating a moody atmosphere that perfectly suits his haunting vocals.

Throughout the concert, Orbison interacts with his bandmates and the audience, displaying a friendly and relaxed demeanor that belies his shyness and reputation as a reclusive figure. He is clearly enjoying himself, and the energy of the crowd only adds to the excitement.

One of the standout moments of the film is Orbison's duet with k.d. lang on "Crying." Both singers pour their hearts into the song, with Orbison's soaring vocals complementing lang's powerful and emotive delivery. It's a stunning performance that is sure to bring a tear to the eye of anyone watching.

Another highlight is Orbison's rendition of "The Comedians," a haunting track that he rarely performed live. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring only Orbison's vocals and guitarist T-Bone Burnett's sparse accompaniment, is a masterclass in understated intensity.

The concert culminates in a rousing version of "Oh, Pretty Woman," with the audience singing and dancing along to one of Orbison's most iconic hits. It's a fitting end to a remarkable performance, leaving the viewer with a sense of awe at Orbison's talent and a longing for more.

Overall, Roy Orbison: Black and White Night 30 is a must-see for any fan of the legendary musician. The film captures him at his best, showcasing his incredible voice and stage presence in a beautifully shot and edited concert experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Orbison for the first time, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Roy Orbison: Black White Night 30 is a 2017 musical with a runtime of 2 hours and 13 minutes.