Rick Wakeman - Live Portraits

Rick Wakeman - Live Portraits is a captivating live music film from 2019 featuring the legendary keyboardist and songwriter Rick Wakeman. This unique sonic and visual experience embodies the subtle grace and majesty of Wakeman, known for his tenure in the progressive rock band Yes, and his substantial solo career. This film is not only a showcase for Wakeman's brilliant musical abilities but is also a rollicking journey filled with Wakeman's engaging storytelling and anecdotes encompassing his five-decade-long career.

Directed by David Minasian and produced by Stuart Green, the film one-ups a traditional concert movie format. It is set in the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral, the serene surroundings and acoustic resonance of which add a divine touch to Wakeman's music, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The venue also provides a stunning visual backdrop further enriched by innovative lighting and effects. Every shot is carefully composed to capture the cathedral's beauty and majestic architecture mirrored with the musical grandeur unfolding from Wakeman's piano.

Kicking off the performance, Wakeman takes center stage seated at his grand piano. As the audience settles into the experience, the virtuoso launches into a selection of carefully curated works that span his career. The film encompasses his compositions from Yes, his solo records, and his film work. The enigmatic musician delivers an exquisite performance, demonstrating his sophisticated technical skill and his ability as a musical conjurer to get audiences emotionally invested in his compositions. His personal narratives enrich the performance further, offering insight into the creations and influences – a peek into the genius's mind.

The film's craftsmanship ensures Wakeman's expertise doesn't overshadow the visual spectacle. Minasian's calculated approach to the direction enables the film to showcase the grand music intertwined with the venue's regality. The camera work captures panoramic views of the cathedral, shifting to close-ups of Wakeman's precise finger-work at the grand piano, creating a visually stunning presentation that complements the musical presentation.

One of the highlights of the film is the seamless merging of Wakeman's celebrated classics and his newer compositions, weaving a narrative that crosses several decades. It is appealing to see Wakeman's deft handling of various musical styles, from the sweeping epics of progressive rock to the more refined classical passages. His brilliant treatments of his classic ballads like "Morning Has Broken" and "Life on Mars" are especially heartwarming.

Moreover, the film's pace is well measured. It doesn't rush but lets moments breathe, maintaining an intimate, warm, and engaging atmosphere. Each song is given ample time to unfold naturally, allowing Wakeman's musical storytelling to take center stage. Wakeman connects with his audience not only through his music but also through his charming conversation. There are laugh-out-loud moments, poignant stories, and insights shared between songs that reveal a lot about the man behind the music.

In an age of excessive and loud music productions, Rick Wakeman - Live Portraits is a breath of fresh air. It's a throwback to an era of profound musicianship, craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned storytelling, brilliantly revisited and renewed by one of the stalwarts of classic rock who continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his enduring talent.

While the film can be enjoyed by a wide range of viewers, it holds a special place for fans of Rick Wakeman and progressive rock enthusiasts. It presents the perfect blend of music, narrative, and visuals, making it stand out amongst the plethora of concert films. But above all, it is a testament to Rick Wakeman's enduring genius and charisma.

Rick Wakeman - Live Portraits is beautifully balanced, a testament to its producers and to Wakeman's sublime music. A must-watch for any music lover, this film serves to remind viewers of Wakeman's significant contribution to the world of music, offering an experience that is as insightful as it is entertaining.