Dirk: Live at the Apollo (2015) User Reviews

An Intriguing 'tour' documentary - authentic and charismatic

[ebarrington-75319 · 9/10 · 28 February 2022]

Bit of an interesting documentary this one, as its working title is actually 'White Sox'. I had the privilege of a private viewing in London some years back when this had been completed and the makers were trying to get it released in unison with the now deleted film 'Dirk- Live from the Apollo' film, alas, to no avail. So far it remains unseen and still in the vaults awaiting some kind of release in the not too distant future. The documentary charts Adams return to the live stage after a short hiatus from playing live, and on the back of another new movie at the time, a year earlier, The Blue Black Hussar, which, hadn't pleased Adams satisfaction upon its cinema release. This then was commissioned by Adam's new founded company of the same name to showcase his upcoming 'Dirk Wears White Sox' tour in the spring of 2014. Often insightful, and candid, it follows Adam around various places in London whereby we learn what the man is actually like in a more private light, understanding what makes him tick, the ideology that goes into the tour, and also those he meets along the way to which he has an immediate camaraderie, and we also learn about how the final show at Hammersmith actually comes about. Some really interesting scenes feature Adam in a Soho Record shop explaining that he's miffed that he didn't get due royalties for a particular record release from way back, to meeting his tailor friend, then a trip in a taxi to the rehearsal rooms where we're introduced to his band. Another nice piece of film sees Adam in his flat being interviewed about the intricacies of stage makeup - also we share two record store days appearances the same day as the final evening show at Hammersmith. Really this film offers true fans a real treat into the secret world of Adam Ant. Technically then, the film is completely shot as a fly-on-the-wall roadshow, (predominantly hand-held camera) and which really does add an authentic feel of what its like to spend time with Adam as if you're along for the ride, no more, no less. If you ever get a chance to see this (not sure where) its really highly absorbing and nicely made - Highly recommended.