Review of Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii

I originally saw Live at Pompeii years ago then went on the hunt for the then out of print VHS. I have to say that as brilliant as the film is I am not a fan of the director's cut on the DVD with all the alternate clips (especially the new intro). Don't get me wrong, this is still an amazing must have for any Floyd fan. It documents the band after the Meddle album was released and right on the cusp of their major breakout (Dark Side of the Moon) which would officially end their psychedelic phase. The film gives a brilliant insight into the live and studio aspects of the Floyd which, as a musician, is always fascinating. If you like to see the inner workings of a band in the studio, performing live and on the road this film provides plenty. There are clips of the band recording Dark Side, interviews which provide a glimpse into how they perceived themselves and the evolution of the band (ex. Nick Mason saying they are all done because 1967 is long gone) and clips from the road with all the typical rock star banter and complaining ("And no crust!!!"). If you've never seen the original of this film then the newer DVD will probably be just as wonderful as the original is for me. I don't like change. Pink Floyd is a monumental rock band and this period of time for them shows some of the well thought out musical genius that was, and will always be Pink Floyd.