Beyond The Lighted Stage (Review)

By Dom Lawson, Classic Rock, September 2010, transcribed by pwrwindows

Beyond The Lighted Stage
(Universal)

Canuck prog titans documented and dissected. Just as they astutely captured the essence of what makes Iron Maiden the biggest and best loved metal band on the planet, so directors Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn have shone a light onto Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart and produced a film that perfectly encapsulates the Canadians' life, times and music. From humble beginnings as school nerds planning an escape route, to the arenapacking superstars they have been for three decades, Beyond The Lighted Stage is an affectionate and largely uncritical tribute to Rush. But it's one that goes beneath the surface often enough to score some big emotional hits - not least with regard to Peart's unbearable raw personal tragedies and his subsequent arduous rebirth. Most importantly, though, the uniqueness of the band's music shines through, and as celebrity fans as seemingly disparate as Kirk Hammett, Billy Corgan and a distinctly mental Sebastian Bach froth with eyes wide and grins broad, the enduring appeal of this deeply unfashionable but eminently creative band really hits home. Throw in a generous helping of bonus live and interview footage, and this could hardly be a more essential addition to any Rush fan's collection. And by Christ, their fans are rabid.