Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 is a captivating and thrilling documentary that charts the remarkable journey of the iconic rock band, Queen. The film meticulously explores the genesis and evolution of the band during the crucial first seven years of their journey, thereby providing a comprehensive insight into how Queen became the legendary act it is known as today.

As the title suggests, this documentary primarily focuses on the period from 1973, when the band released their self-titled debut album "Queen," through to 1980, following the release of their eighth studio album "The Game." This period marked a significant phase in the band's career, witnessing both their rise to global prominence and the cultivation of their distinctive sound characterized by elaborate arrangements and theatrical performances.

Irrespective of whether you happen to be a die-hard Queen fan or someone who's merely intrigued by the history of rock music, this film warrants your attention. It provides an in-depth investigation into the Queen canon, offering detailed assessments of their music, their albums, and their impact. The narrative format of the film incorporates a balanced mix of music, critique, rare archival footage, and detailed interviews giving a truly holistic view of the band's artistry.

Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 features a fantastic array of informed and articulate contributors. This includes the likes of Paul Gambaccini, a renowned broadcaster and music journalist who offers the viewer an insider's perspective on the music industry during the band's uprising. Also contributing their insights are PR representatives, former friends, band technician Peter Hince, and notable critics who followed Queen's career closely throughout the years.

One of the features that truly make Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 stand out is the rare footage included within it. With Queen being a band that wasn't extensively documented in its early days, this film is all the more valuable. The documentary showcases stills, behind-the-scenes captures, press clips, and rare performances that add further depth to the band's visual history.

Even the most devout Queen fan will find something new in this documentary. There's the exploration of the band's early influences, the intricate breakdown of their pioneering sound, and the dissection of the societal and cultural backdrop against which they rose to fame. Individual members of the band, Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, are also placed under scrutiny with in-depth examinations of their respective contributions to the unique synthesis that Queen was and continues to be known for.

What truly sets Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 apart from other music documentaries is the particular focus on the band's musical roots and development. The film walks the audience through Queen's musical journey, from their initial formation to their breaking out of the UK market, their establishment as an internationally acclaimed act, the triumphs and setbacks encountered along the way, and their constant effort towards experimentation and redefinition of their sound.

The documentary also tries to answer some of the band's greatest mysteries, like why did a single like "Bohemian Rhapsody" - unconventional in its structure and style - become such a monumental hit? It highlights the band's distinct and daring approach toward the music business, their refusal to adhere to conventional norms and the continual striving for unique and innovative sounds that set them apart from the rest of the rock music scene of their generation.

From the perspective of a musical review, Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 is unequivocally insightful, offering a meticulously researched and compelling narrative of a legendary band that continues to impact and shape the music industry. It takes the viewer on an exciting journey, showing how Queen was able to transition from promising newcomers to rock icons within a short span of time, with each remarkable turn detailed and discussed thoroughly.

Queen: Under Review 1973-1980 commemorates and celebrates the band in a unique and enduring way. It offers an exceptional window into the band's world, illustrated with the best available visuals, annotations from an informed panel of experts, and soundtracked by some of the greatest music ever made. Whether you're a beginning music enthusiast or a serious Queen fanatic, this film is a captivating love letter to the band, and an essential addition to your music documentary collection.