8 Days A Week Review

8 Days A Week is a documentary that focuses on the times of 'Beatlemania'- the touring days of The Beatles exploring their first visit to America, their iconic performance at Shea Stadium up until their disillusion with live performance that led into their experimental recording work. Ron Howard works towards a light hearted approach to the story- which with the addition of the Beatles infamous sarcasm and dry humour- works perfectly to highlight the shock of the experience whilst also preventing the negative moments from being too dark.

This is simultaneously an issue and a grace as whilst it maintains the tone of the film, you're left with the sense that every aspect of the story has yet to be been explored (and considering the heavy involvement of the remaining Beatles themselves AND the production from the Beatles company, it's easy to understand why we never experience a less than positive light). The use of unseen footage, interviews with fans and interviews with celebrities (the likes of both Sigourney Weaver and Oprah Winfrey both make appearances) does maintain a positive feeling however and I could see how, though this film does not explore anything particularly unknown to people who are aware of The Beatles story, it would still be enjoyable for fans wanting to remember or experience the concerts for themselves. 

Positives:

The documentary is enjoyable, fun and provides the perfect blend of music, interviews and humour to create an enjoyable watch.

Negatives:

It provides nothing truly new enough or scintillating enough to be considered a "great" documentary and feels like it leaves a lot unexplored.

Summary:

While not the most awe-inspiring music documentary in the world, it is still thoroughly enjoyable and definitely something to watch for if you're a fan of the Fab Four.