Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
A concert movie on an unprecedented scale, Rattle And Hum captures U2 - on and off the stage - during their triumphant Joshua Tree tour. From the giant technicolour stadium celebrations to the black-and-white intensity of the indoor shows, this is U2 at their best. Follow the group across America, exploring new influences, playing with the legendary B.B. King from Dublin to Graceland.
Rattle and Hum is a visually stunning concert film shot by Phil Joanou with gorgeous black-and-white and color cinematography that elevates the concert documentary form. The film captures U2 at their creative and commercial peak during the Joshua Tree tour, with electric performances and genuine behind-the-scenes intimacy. However, the documentary framing is somewhat loose and the narrative thread between segments is thin, keeping Plot modest. The film's earnest, self-mythologizing tone has been both praised and mocked, but the raw musical performances — particularly with B.B. King — give it real heart. Cinematography is a genuine standout; Novelty is solid but concert docs existed before this. The ending, closing on a massive live performance, is rousing but not especially surprising.