The Rolling Stones Shine a Light

I’m still pulsating from The Rolling Stones’ new movie Shine A Light. 11am on Saturday found me at a local Imax theater, where I chose a seat precisely in the middle of the screen. The picture and the sound are amazing, and if there is a film that is enhanced by exceptional audio and video, it is this one.

I know that it is directed by Martin Scorsese (masterfully), I know that it was staged at the New York’s Beacon Theater (perfectly), I know that Bill and Hillary and Hillary’s mother were there (prominently). I also know that Jack White, Christine Aguilera, and Buddy Guy each did a song. But it really is all about the music.

One thing that becomes apparent is that The Stones work hard, despite the fun-loving demeanor of Keith Richards and Ron Wood. The Stones plan meticulously. They are as professional as World Cup champions. This is what they do. In one of the vintage interviews, Keith says he just “feels” when he is on stage, that he is “in a zone”. And it is obvious in the interplay between the band, the backups, the audience; they are all in the zone.

It’s not all hard work; there is joy and exuberance. An awe that they can still do it. Mick Jagger rolling his eyes at Charlie Watts. Keith smiling in amazement at the audience. In another archive clip, from The Dick Cavett Show, Jagger is asked if he could see himself doing this at sixty. Prophetically, the answer is “yes, easily”.

It occurs to you (since you are watching on a screen three stories high) that these are not large people. They are sinewy and wiry. Charlie is rather short. Furthermore, they are decidedly middle-aged. Their wrinkles have become furrows. As one who is as old as they are, it is heady to see them still perform at a very high level. Their mostly mod style has never diminished. Keith and Ronnie are adorned with necklaces and earrings and rings and bracelets. Mick changes often into feathery or sparkly clothes. Charlie wears a simple dark t-shirt.

The soundtrack from Shine A Light is exceptional. Every one of the 22 songs is a keeper, and “Tumblin’ Dice” and “Satisfaction” are standouts. The DVD, when released, will be a must-buy. “Start Me Up” is incandescent– the crowd raising their arms in time with the chorus. “Shattered” has the crowd joining in on “Ha… Ba-doo-be!”. “Sympathy For The Devil” features a flamboyant entrance from the back of the theater by Jagger and even more energy, if that’s possible.

Scorsese sets the concert up and then leaves it alone. Some of the camera moves are extra classy — a backup singer points to the sky as a song ends, the camera follows the hand up to the ceiling, then fades. One priceless sequence has Charlie Watts looking at the camera, which is at his side, and going “phew!” after a long, hot song. David Maysles (who appeared at J&R last year to support the new DVD of Gimme Shelter) is responsible for the handheld work, especially as they leave the stage. Editing is tight. And make sure you stay for the last shot.

For those who are not Rolling Stones fans, this is something to experience. You will understand a cultural phenomenon. For those of you who are Stones fans, Shine A Light is transcendent. You will be transported magically, as I was, to planet Stones.

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