I don’t often do written movie reviews since I discuss them weekly on the Random Podcast From Heck. I was writing a post on Instagram about the movie, and it started getting a little verbose.
Seeing Taylor Swift live is simply an “experience.” I’ve been fortunate enough to see her perform twice with my daughter. I wasn’t prepared for how amazing a concert film of the show could be. In the old days, there would have to be someone running around on stage with a camera to try to film everything. With today’s technology, it’s incredible what can be done.
There are phenomenal shots that make you feel as if you’re up on stage with Taylor. The cameras also capture the infectious vibe, energy, and smiles from Taylor, her back-up singers, dancers, and band. It’s obvious they are all overjoyed to be there and be part of performance. Whether you’ve been to a live show or not, you can’t help but get pulled into the show. You feel as if you’re there and Taylor is talking to you and the rest of the audience.
I went to a kind of last minute preview night booking. The theater wasn’t packed, and there weren’t people dancing and singing at the top of their lungs as is rumored what fans will do. I did feel a strong urge to applaud after songs based on how powerful the performances were.
If you’re not a Taylor fan, you can’t deny the brilliance of the song lyrics as well as the structure, composition, and arrangement of each. The different “eras” even showcase the evolution, growth, and variety of Taylor’s catalogue. Taylor has dipped her toes into different genres, and it’s always felt so natural. Other performers don’t often reinvent themselves with each album. Taylor manages to find new elements to add to the composition with each album.
The show itself is nuts. The movie allows you to fully appreciate the entire production. You’ve likely seen images of the stadium shows. With a stage that covers about three fourths of a football field, Taylor and her ensemble cover the entire thing. They don’t just perform to those lucky enough to be in the “front row.” Taylor performs to the entire stadium.
There is also the running time. The movie is two hours and forty-eight minutes. The concert was three and a half hours. You’re lucky to get bands to perform for half that time at concerts. Three and a half hours with no intermissions or breaks. On top of that, there were the costume changes. I’m still blown away at whatever clothing technology or sorcery that was used to allow Taylor to change pretty much without missing a beat in the show.
I have to wonder where the energy to pull the show off night after night comes from. Perhaps it’s easy when you’re doing something you love. Taylor clearly does and loves being able to share it with fans.
Despite Taylor’s long and impactful career as well as the incredible things she does for people and their communities, this movie may not be for everyone. It’s okay if her music isn’t “your thing,” but you cannot deny her power. It’s unfortunate when people simply dismiss her as a performer when they probably haven’t really processed what she’s capable of.
Casual and hardcore fans will fall in love with the film. It does almost feel like going back to the show, except you’re in a more comfortable seat. The vibrations during songs like “…Ready For It” make you appreciate the fact you’re watching it in a theater instead of waiting for it to be available at home.
Taylor fans can rejoice in the glory of the movie. Non-fans will have to find something else to bring some happiness to their lives. This is definitely a movie that should be seen on a big screen.
What the Heck is going on?!? 