Stars: Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, Larry Mullen Jnr.
Directed by: Kathryn Owens and Mark Pellington
Reviewed by: Adam Mast, Zboneman.com
Grade: A-
U2-3-D is one of the greatest concert films of our time. It ranks
right up there with the likes of The Last Waltz and Stop Making Sense.
Being a massive fan of U2, there's certainly a bit of bias to that
statement, but the fact remains, this is one hell of a breathtaking
movie.
Culled from several dates on their South American "Vertigo" tour, U2 3-D captures the most vital rock band of the last twenty five years in their prime. And through this amazing digital 3-D process – also used for Superman Returns and Beowulf - we the audience are not only thrust into a sea of cheering fans, but we also feel the sensation of being a rock star. This revolutionary third dimension actually allows us to explore the space inhabited by the band itself. By viewing U2 3-D, you won't only be paying far less money than you would if you saw the band live (if you do get a chance however, they're well worth the price of admission), but you won't have to spend a majority of the show yelling "Down in front" at the drunk idiot swaying back and forth right in front of you.
As for the technical aspects of the picture, rest assured; this isn't your father's 3-D. This film doesn't wallow in the gimmick obsessed shenanigans of Jaws 3-D and Comin' At Ya. Bono and crew don't spend ninety minutes tossing things at the camera. This take on the third dimension will give you an entirely new outlook on the process. Gone are the cardboard frames with the red and blue lenses. In their place? Heavy duty - but comfortable - spectacles that you will completely forget you're wearing once the film starts. When the movie begins, you will be completely immersed in this beautiful assault of the senses.
The band is in rare form. Whether they're doing a chill-inducing rendition of "Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own" or belting out a rousing version of the classic "Sunday Bloody Sunday" – in which Bono literally steps out of the screen and cries "Wipe your tears away!"– you will feel as if you are there.
Even nearly thirty years into their iconic career, U2 have never sounded better. Their live performances have always been about pure, undeniable showmanship, and that certainly doesn't change here. Throughout the film, you will see first hand why U2 have endured. Love them or hate them, they have carved a major niche in the rock n' roll history books with their unmatched fusion of politics, spirituality, and unforgettable, fiery anthems. And through the years, lead vocalist Bono has become just as vital as a spokesman for political and humanitarian issues as he has for his soaring singing chops. But to call him pretentious and self important seems a bit unfair. That recent South Park episode, the one that suggests Bono is nothing more than a massive slab of fecal matter, is an absolute riot to be sure, but in reality, Bono the man is anything but a piece of crap. There's a sincerity and passion at the heart of this icon, and he's used his celebrity in a way that many rock stars would never dare. As a front man for one of the biggest rock acts in the world, he delivers unlimited passion and swagger. As a spokesman for the various causes he supports, Bono delivers from the heart.
If there's any complaining to do here, it would have to be in regard to the set list. It would have been nice to experience a show in it's entirety. During the Vertigo tour, the set lists were over 20 songs long. U2 3-D comes in at just under ninety minutes (fourteen songs). On the other hand, my good friend and colleague Bruce Bennett–at least I like to think he's a colleague. He's in a class all by himself-- suggests that any great band knows that it's best to leave the audience wanting more. Truer words have never been spoken. U2 is so amazing, they always leave you wanting more.
U2 3-D is playing nationwide in both digital 3-D and Imax 3-D. If you can't chose between the two, my suggestion is see it twice. It's well worth it.
Grade: A-