“Becoming Led Zeppelin,” the first officially sanctioned documentary chronicling the legendary rock band’s formation and meteoric rise, has recently been released in theaters. Directed by Bernard MacMahon, the film offers an immersive journey through Led Zeppelin’s early years, featuring never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews with band members.
**Release Details**
The documentary premiered exclusively in IMAX theaters in the United States and Canada on February 7, 2025, providing audiences with a visually and sonically enhanced experience. Following the IMAX release, the film expanded to a wider audience with a nationwide release on 1,000 screens on February 14, 2025. European audiences also had the opportunity to view the film, with releases in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg on February 26, 2025, and in the Netherlands on February 27, 2025.
**Film Content and Approach**
“Becoming Led Zeppelin” traces the individual journeys of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham through the 1960s music scene, culminating in their union in 1968 and rapid ascent to global fame by 1970. The narrative is constructed from intimate interviews with the surviving members and previously unheard audio recordings of the late John Bonham, offering personal insights into the band’s dynamics and creative processes.
Notably, the documentary eschews sensationalism, focusing instead on the band’s musical artistry and evolution. It omits the notorious tales of excess often associated with rock stardom, presenting a narrative aligned with the band’s artistic vision. The film delves into their early performances, creative inspirations, and the challenges they faced in their rise to prominence.
**Critical Reception**
Critics have offered varied perspectives on the documentary. The Financial Times praised it for honoring the band’s musicianship, highlighting electrifying live performances that showcase their exceptional talent. The review commended the film for celebrating Led Zeppelin’s legacy with full renditions of their impactful songs, presenting them as master musicians.
Conversely, The Times noted that while the film captures the band’s exhilarating live performances and some personal anecdotes, it falls short in delivering deeper insights into the personalities and inner workings of the band. Significant details, such as the influence of their manager Peter Grant and the dynamics within the band, are glossed over, leaving viewers seeking a more comprehensive portrayal of Led Zeppelin’s complex history.
**Conclusion**
“Becoming Led Zeppelin” offers fans and newcomers an intimate look into the band’s formative years, emphasizing their musical journey and creative achievements. While it may not delve into all aspects of their history, the documentary provides a richly detailed, immersive experience that captures the essence of Led Zeppelin’s early days.
