Rainbow: Total Rock Review is an in-depth documentary style film that delves into the history and music of the British rock band, Rainbow. Formed initially by Ritchie Blackmore, the iconic lead guitarist from Deep Purple, and Ronnie James Dio, the legendary lead vocalist from Elf and later Black Sabbath, Rainbow was a revolutionary force in the rock scene during the 70s and 80s, leaving an irreversible mark on rock history.

The documentary feature is a treasure trove for die-hard fans and an excellent introduction for newcomers to the band, tracing the tumultuous journey of Rainbow since its inception. It presents a careful study and analysis of Rainbow's style, concept, and influences from different perspectives, and demonstrates how Rainbow emerged out of the shadows of Deep Purple to carve its own distinct legacy.

Rainbow: Total Rock Review starts from the very beginning, capturing the band's embryonic stage when Blackmore was searching for a new musical direction after his departure from Deep Purple. Together with Dio, Blackmore crafted Rainbow's signature sound – a blend of hard rock and neoclassical elements that would go on to influence future generations of heavy metal bands.

The narrative unfolds the band's story chronologically, covering each album, from their debut ‘Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow’ to the final one ‘Stranger in Us All.’ Along with this, it discusses in detail the numerous line-up changes that the group underwent. Rainbow is well-known for its revolving line-up, with Blackmore being the only constant member, but each new compilation of musicians added something fresh and innovative to the band's catalog, an aspect that is thoroughly explored in the film.

Rainbow: Total Rock Review is not just a conventional retrospective of the band’s music but also an introspective look into the chemistry, alterations, and conflicts within the band. It candidly presents the power struggles, creative differences, and clashing personalities that formed the undercurrents of Rainbow's history, giving viewers a realistic picture of what it was like behind the scenes.

The film explores the band's creative process, the craftsmanship involved in shaping their identity, and their commitment to musical and visual theatrics. Analyzing the band's diverse discography, the film offers valuable insights into the thematic content of Rainbow's music, the evolution of their sound, and the creative impulses that guided their music.

One of the key highlights of Rainbow: Total Rock Review is its high-quality concert footage, showcasing Rainbow's legendary live performances. The electrifying energy of Rainbow concerts, with pyrotechnics, the colossal Rainbow prop, and their spectacular musicianship, is successfully captured in the footage. It gives the audience an authentic feel of Rainbow's live acts and sends them on a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of hard rock and metal.

Another significant aspect of the film is its extensive interviews. Rainbow: Total Rock Review hosts a string of interviews from former band members, music critics, producers, and close associates who discuss the band's journey, influence, and legacy. The interviews contribute to the understanding of what made Rainbow so unique and influential in the music industry.

As a documentary-style film, Rainbow: Total Rock Review is informative, engaging, and well researched, providing a detailed introspective into one of rock's most influential bands. It narrates the fascinating story of a band that touched the pinnacle of fame and went through a series of transformations, managing to produce some of the most unforgettable rock anthems known till date.

To conclude, Rainbow: Total Rock Review is more than just a documentary. It is a tribute to Rainbow's legendary aura and an exploration of their impact on rock music. Both nostalgic and educational, the film is an absolute must-watch for rock music aficionados, Rainbow fans, and anyone interested in the electrifying world of rock and roll history.