Caroline Puckett
“Becoming Led Zeppelin” is an enticing IMAX documentary that aims to recapture the legendary band’s rapid rise to fame. Directed by Bernard MacMahon, the high-resolution film focuses on the early years of Led Zeppelin, opting to tell the history of the band’s creation and their first two albums, rather than their complete catalog. Hoping to blend storytelling and musical aspects seamlessly, the picture includes a variety of full-length performances to go along with its lengthy expositional sections.
The feature succeeds in capturing the audience’s attention through familiar performances, but it does little to cover the band beyond a surface-level investigation. MacMahon’s refusal to dive deeper creates a divide within itself, inviting newcomers while somewhat alienating long-term fans. Though the film attempts to engage with new admirers by offering prolonged exposition, it tends to drag and leave viewers waiting for the next musical number rather than keeping them entertained.
The strongest aspect of the documentary is its collection of archived performances. Including never-before-seen IMAX footage, the film hangs its hat on the relentless live energy that Led Zeppelin brings. With performances of “Whole Lotta Love,” “Dazed and Confused” and “Moby Dick,” audiences are electrified by the flashy playing of lead guitarist Jimmy Page and entranced by the exceedingly powerful voice of Robert Plant.
Each band member’s ability is showcased through a song of their own, making each of their musical choices meaningful and relevant. While “Dazed and Confused” serves to showcase the genius of Page’s guitar playing and technique, the live showing of “Moby Dick” captures the magic of late drummer John Bonham’s bashful, yet delicate style. No two songs are played at the same venue, as the movie uses different concert footage for each performance. The musical numbers heavily immerse the audience, making them feel like they are touring with the band in their early years.
The music serves its purpose of engaging the viewer, but it only does so after nearly an hour of backstory and informational dumps. Taking its time to introduce the creation of Led Zeppelin, the film only tends to scratch the surface of the band’s beginnings. Aside from a rare home interview with Bonham, “Becoming Led Zeppelin” does little to hit on its “all access” premise.
While the lengthy exposition in the film’s beginning may bore viewers, it does not distract from the musical brilliance captured in “Becoming Led Zeppelin.” While Zeppelin films such as “The Song Remains The Same” and “Celebration Day” still reign supreme, the IMAX documentary is still worth seeing for the archival footage of live performances.