Musicians are transforming versions of their tours into concert films with some of these creations going on to dominate the Box Office and become some of the highest-grossing domestic concert films in Hollywood history.
The year’s biggest film concert is obviously “The Eras Tour Film” and it’s clear after the credits roll out you want to continue the celebration this Thanksgiving.
Fortunately, a variety of musicians’ unique musical styles can be heard on the big screen. Despite Swift’s significant influence, concert films appear to be in vogue right now.
Pop icons like Lizzo (Live in Concert), Selena Gomez (My Mind and Me), and Lewis Capaldi have all released hit concert films. Other well-known concert films include Talking Heads, Queen, and Beyoncé’s breathtaking Homecoming. Here are three classic concert film experiences that will guarantee a lively Thanksgiving weekend celebration.
Homecoming: A Film by Beyonce (2019)
Beyoncé, the first black woman to headline the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, did more than just perform; she delivered a mind-blowing extravaganza that gave rise to a brand-new term, Beychella. The Netflix movie Homecoming, which was filmed over two nights, features a discography-spanning retrospective and standout renditions of “Formation” “Run the World,” and “Single Ladies.” With subtle references to historically black colleges and universities, legendary performers like Nina Simone, and an astounding display of dance, fashion, and vocal prowess, Homecoming won at the 62nd Grammy for Best Music Film.
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Prince: Sign of the Times (1987)
Sign of the Times, the legendary concert film, was once difficult to find; following its theatrical release, it was only available on VHS before going out of print. But now that streaming has made it possible, it’s simple to travel back in time and experience the magic of Prince. The film, which was directed by the musician and draws inspiration from his critically acclaimed 1987 album Sign o’ the Times—the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017—reminding viewers of the magnetic qualities of the Purple One.
Summer of Soul (2021)
In 1969, B.B. King, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, and Nina Simone collaborated on the largely unremembered multi-week legendary Harlem Cultural Festival. That all changed, though, when Roots frontman Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson found a wealth of footage and used it to direct this magnificent film, which was named Summer of Soul and went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Music Film.