The Film
Everyone had a different response to 9/11. If you're Paul McCartney, you channeled that energy into the Concert for New York. Those wanting a behind-the-scenes peek at Sir Paul's day-to-day during the planning process may appreciate the documentary The Love We Make.
Shot in the aftermath of 9/11, this is a bird's eye view of McCartney at his finest. The film was released on Showtime back in September, to mark the tragedy's 10th anniversary.
The film's tagline states that this is McCartney's "cathartic journey through New York City in the aftermath of 9/11." While McCartney does trek through the city's streets, the film is more of a behind-the-scenes peek at the making of a great concert. In between, he walks the streets; signs autographs; talks with Dan Rather, Howard Stern and others; and rides in limos. The whole thing comes to a head at the actual concert, which includes Billy Joel, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, Elton John, James Taylor, Eric Clapton, Jay-Z, The Who, Harrison Ford, Billy Crystal, Bill Clinton, and countless others. Hey, when Paul McCartney calls, you show up!
Director Albert Maysles first chronicled McCartney in the film What's Happening! The Beatles In The USA. He certainly knows his subject matter and does a wonderful job (alongside Bradley Kaplan) at capturing a day in the life of an icon. Also, McCartney seems like a nice enough guy. However, those expecting more of a connection to 9/11 or a concert film will be a little disappointed.
The Picture
Shot in black-and-white in the 1.33:1 format, Blu-ray fans won't be making love to the image on The Love We Make. The film includes a decent chunk of standard-def archive footage, which blurts out blips of color during interviews and televised concert footage. The quality of these moments is a bit of a mixed bag. The Howard Stern Show footage, in particular, looks like it was lifted from the web. The HD moments don't perk up the image all that much thanks to grain that's as thick as pea soup. Of course, it's intentional, but that probably won't cheer you up all that much. The one saving grace is that the black levels are pretty stellar, creating a nice contrast throughout the film.
The Sound
As with many Eagle Rock releases, The Love We Make defaults to the LPCM Stereo track. However, there are options for DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and Dolby Digital 5.1. It doesn't really matter, though, because most of the film is dialogue with very little other audio. That said, when the music pops in, you're going to want that DTS-HD MA track for the extra oomph.
The Extras
While we didn't expect a McCartney commentary, it's hard to believe that Eagle Rock would let this one go with absolutely no extras. There isn't even a trailer or promo for this film. A few outtakes would have been nice as well. However, it's just the film and nothing more.
Final Thoughts
Beatles fans and Paul McCartney fans may appreciate this peek at a day in the life of an icon. However, those looking for a 9/11 tribute or a concert film will probably be a little disappointed. Both aren't much more than a blip during this film, which can be a little slow at times. The video may be accurate, but doesn't add much to get the viewer excited about the film. The audio fares much better, but just isn't all that memorable, either. And don't even get us started on the extras. That said, The Love We Make may be the closest you'll ever get to a rock legend. Show some respect!
Product Details
Where to Buy:
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| Video | |
| Audio | |
| Movie | |
| Extras |
