Not only is this documentary on famed producer George Martin a MUST for Beatles fans, but anyone remotely interested in the history of 60s rock or how the role of a producer changed because of this lanky and understated Brit will want to savor every second of this 90 minute show (with a sumptuous collection of extras). The disc essentially chronicles the life and career of this gentle and wry Englishman who initially wanted to be “the second Rachmaninoff, but stumbled on to producing for the fledging and struggling Parlophone label material like comedy routines by Peter Sellers and jingles.
His happenstance meeting with Beatles manager Brian Epstein essentially changed the direction of modern music, with the role of the producer turning from that of a “photographer” to a “painter” as is commented by one of the many producers who have followed in his wake. Interviews conducted by Martin’s own son, as well as with Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, John McLaughlin and Marty Palin take you from the pop world of the late 50s and Cliff Richard to and through Revolver, Abbey Road and the British Invasion all the way through groups like The Police. All through the documentary, the quiet and understated dignity of this charming and humble man takes over, making you easily see why people would trust any decision he would make in the studio. Ever faithful to his wife, he goes over ever so patiently how they met, as well as his life in the service, and how he eventually had to cope with hearing loss. One classic moment is when he is lecturing a group of people, and after bumping into the microphone, he apologizes to the audience, explaining, “I’m not used to these things.”
A temperament that mixes the suave of James Bond, the subtle humor of Peter Sellers, and the inquisitive obsessiveness of all things British make up the personality of this charming and elegant man. A more reassuring 90 minutes about the joy of being a simple straightforward and dignified person couldn’t have been made. A must for anyone wanting to see how to be a “success” in this world of style over substance.
Eagle Vision DVD