By now, the "story" behind THE LAST WALTZ is well known. It is a concert film depicting The Band's "farewell concert" on Thanksgiving, 1976 at the Winterland. Thanks to Netflix, I finally was able to watch THE LAST WALTZ. Among such other concert films as CONCERT FOR BANGLADESH and STOP MAKING SENSE, it is a wonderful period piece, capturing its era. The musical performances in this film are very solid. The Staple Singers join in for part of THE WEIGHT, Van Morrison makes a curious stage exit before his song is even done, and Neil Diamond reminds us of the gifted songwriter he could be.
BUT....
I really wish the film had just stayed with the musical performances. Unfortunately, we also get numerous "backstage interviews." These mar and slow down the pacing of the film and as such, these segments have not aged well. Most of The Band, speak in monotones and (no disrespect intended) but Rick Danko and Richard Manuel seem so drugged-out in these segments, it's no wonder they have since died.
I could give this movie a 10 were it not for the interview segments. Still, don't let that detract you. Hit the fast-forward button and enjoy some wonderful music performances.
As for what happened to the performers since then: Levon Helm did get into some acting, most notably in COAL MINER'S DAUGHTER. Robbie Robertson had something of a solo comeback in the late 1980s. Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and Van Morrison have continued to write compelling new music. And Eric Clapton of course has had the most successful career since then.
BUT....
I really wish the film had just stayed with the musical performances. Unfortunately, we also get numerous "backstage interviews." These mar and slow down the pacing of the film and as such, these segments have not aged well. Most of The Band, speak in monotones and (no disrespect intended) but Rick Danko and Richard Manuel seem so drugged-out in these segments, it's no wonder they have since died.
I could give this movie a 10 were it not for the interview segments. Still, don't let that detract you. Hit the fast-forward button and enjoy some wonderful music performances.
As for what happened to the performers since then: Levon Helm did get into some acting, most notably in COAL MINER'S DAUGHTER. Robbie Robertson had something of a solo comeback in the late 1980s. Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and Van Morrison have continued to write compelling new music. And Eric Clapton of course has had the most successful career since then.