Watch The Who - Sensation - The Story of Tommy

The Who - Sensation - The Story of Tommy is a captivating documentary film released in 2013 that delves into the creation and impact of the iconic rock opera album "Tommy" by the legendary British rock band, The Who. Directed by Richard Barnes, this documentary provides an in-depth exploration of the band's journey in conceptualizing, recording, and performing the groundbreaking album.

The film opens with a glimpse into the early history of The Who, tracing the band's roots and their emergence as one of the most influential and innovative rock acts of the 1960s. Through insightful interviews with band members Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, and John Entwistle, as well as other key figures in their career, viewers gain a comprehensive understanding of the band's artistic vision and the sociopolitical backdrop that influenced their music.

At the heart of the documentary lies the story of "Tommy," the prolific rock opera released in 1969 that catapulted The Who to new heights of popularity and critical acclaim. "Tommy" narrates the tale of a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who finds solace and understanding through his innate musical abilities, ultimately becoming a spiritual figure for a disillusioned generation. The documentary explores the conceptualization and recording process, shedding light on the band's motivation and the autobiographical elements within the album.

Interviews with Pete Townshend illustrate his creative process and the personal experiences that shaped the narrative. Viewers gain valuable insights into the emotional turmoil and struggles faced by Townshend during that period, as he confronted his own identity and dealt with his tumultuous relationship with his parents. Through these interviews, the complexity and depth of the album's themes become apparent, giving fans a newfound appreciation for "Tommy."

Interspersed with the interviews are captivating concert footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses of The Who performing "Tommy" live. These energetic performances showcase the band's incredible talent and their ability to bring their complex studio album to life on stage. The film captures the electrifying atmosphere and the enthusiastic response from audiences, cementing the profound impact "Tommy" had on fans around the world.

In addition to exploring the music itself, the documentary provides a broader cultural context for "Tommy." It highlights the album's resonance with the counterculture movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s, where the ideas of spiritual enlightenment, personal liberation, and rebellion against societal norms resonated deeply with the youth. Through interviews with music critics and cultural commentators, the film examines the album's lasting influence not only on the music industry but also on popular culture as a whole.

"The Who - Sensation - The Story of Tommy" is an engaging and enlightening documentary that pays homage to one of the most significant albums in rock history. By intertwining personal interviews, concert footage, and cultural analysis, the film immerses the audience in the creative process, artistic vision, and impact of The Who's "Tommy." It offers a compelling narrative that not only celebrates the album's artistic achievements but also provides valuable insights into the sociopolitical climate of the time. Fans of The Who and music enthusiasts alike will find this documentary a fascinating look into the making of a timeless masterpiece.

The Who - Sensation - The Story of Tommy is a 2013 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.