In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50

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phill l An intriguing documentary about life in one of the most demanding and committed bands, and their demanding and committed fans. It's not a straightforward historical documentary of the various lineups that were each at the cutting edge of music at their time, continually morphing. It's more an examination of what's always been at the heart of this band. It was filmed as the final lineup of the band was on its "Completion Tour" and has interviews with many past and present members. Toby Amies is to be congratulated for putting together a fascinatingly honest and inspiring film that doesn't shy away from difficulties. The band "leader" Fripp chose Toby for his idiosyncratic approach to documentaries and left all filming and editing decisions to him which was brave. Fripp comes over as being brutally honest with himself and others but also with a very dry wit which seems to be shared with other band members. There might not be enough music in it for some fans, but there's plenty of recorded material anyway. This is something completely different Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 04/08/24 Full Review biloute l not kind what I was expecting. listening to an old guy whining all the time isnt very pleasant Rated 1/5 Stars •  Rated 1 out of 5 stars 12/18/23 Full Review Tony E An intimate, at times painful portrait of a group of men who settle for nothing other than perfection, and are cursed with the self-awareness to know no such things exist. This is a film about what makes the people tick. Fripp, whose tinpot dictator routine hides a deeply sensitive and thoughtful man, carries on his traditional role of "not leading" the band, but is its core. It's hard at times to believe this playful chap created some of the darkest guitar lines in history, and at times not. The same could also be said of their first dummer, Mike Giles, who manages to be both a god of thunder and quintessential English gentleman. Some of the reflections are pained - the path to perfection will always claim some roadkill - but their complaints are put into perspective by Bill Rieflin. How much does this music really mean? His resolve and dignity answer that question better than any histrionics. The film also features a variety of very serious fans who go to KC shows expecting the best night of their lives, and quite often get it. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 06/13/23 Full Review Antonino S Brilliant and introspective. Insightful journey through the folds of the Crimson King's mantle. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 06/05/23 Full Review Christopher E What an extraordinarily good documentary. It's a great watch whether or not you are/were a fan of the band. A study in obsession, skill & passion. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 04/09/23 Full Review Aldis H The most entertaining music documentary I've ever seen. Robert Fripp is a creator unparalleled, not in that he writes most of the songs (a goodly portion of King Crimson songs are co-written or written by members other than Fripp), but in the way he has ruled King Crimson to make them into something not experienced before. Think of him what you will, but he and his revolving cast of mates offer another reality, and you have to have a king to keep the castle standing. It IS unquestionably a reality, and Robert is its king. He is the Crimson King, and he seems to have striven to do right by his subjects, be they band members or listeners, and he is the main reason every single person I've ever known would buy a King Crimson ticket in a millisecond. Long like the King! Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/01/24 Full Review Read all reviews

In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50

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