LIVE AT POMPEII (THE DIRECTOR'S CUT)

While lauded by many as a cult-classic and the best example of FLOYD in their early creative days (before they became stadium rock monsters), I hesitate in awarding this DVD re-release of "Live at Pompeii" a masterpiece label. IF you are a FLOYD fan, well then yes, this is wonderful stuff. Personally I love it. But, if you are not a hardcore fan, you will find this interesting to watch once, but will probably not want to see it more than once.

The reason being is that much of the material on here is definitely of the 'older' variety. Yes there is some behind the scenes 'Dark Side' studio material shown which is intriguing, but I'd bet the majority of people watching this for the first time will not be happy with which songs are played. The pieces selected ('Set the Controls', 'One of These Days' and 'A Saucerful of Secrets') are superior to their studio versions, and are excellent soundtrack for the atmospheric locale of the film shoot, but all things considered they are still fairly obscure songs. If you enjoy the long instrumental portions of these pieces (especially the percussion of Nick Mason) then this is recommended, otherwise, you will probably lose interest quick.

Maben, the director, has recieved a lot of criticism for the computer-generated images he has added to the original film. After watching the film again recently I agree they are corny to be sure, but not entirely devoid of merit. Besides if you really can't stand them, just watch the full original unedited film instead, which is also included on this DVD amongst other bonus material.

I feel this film is great 'background' for Poker games, but find it hard to sit and watch straight through without getting distracted. Still a classic film, even if 'Echoes' is cut into two seperate pieces. For FLOYD afficianados this is mandatory, for others less so. 4/5 stars.