THE WRECKING CREW (2008)

Directed By: Danny Tedesco 

Featuring: Danny Tedesco, Brian Wilson, Cher, Dick Clark, Glenn Campbell, Nancy Sinatra, Micky Dolenz 


A celebration of the musical work of a group of session musicians known as "The Wrecking Crew", a band that provided back-up instrumentals to such legendary recording artists as Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys and Bing Crosby.

Although completed in 2008, the film wasn't released until 2015. The reason for the gap was problems with music licensing rights. It took a Kickstarter campaign to raise the $200,000 to clear them.

The Wrecking Crew got their name in the early 1960s because of their refusal to turn up to recording sessions in formal suits. Instead, they showed up in jeans and T-shirts, causing some in the business to say that they were "wrecking" the high standards of the industry.

The amazing thing is that most of the musicians featured here didn't like the music or didn't think it was that great, but was popular and paid the bills.

Learning the history and information, but makes it feel like toy are hanging out and learning it from what feels like stories told more in conversation. So that there are really no dead spaces throughout.

You never want to leave their side and while they have this amazing talent they are just regular people down to earth. No real ego and seeing all of them as charismatic, funny and still can play.

While the songs are playing showing you exactly who played on the songs. Not necessarily the artist or band you believe. Behind many hits you will remember, might even be some of your favorites. So you get to learn some behind the scenes stories and information.

The audience could easily listen to these guys speak all day. So much so you will wish it was longer.

The film is directed by the band leaders son. Who was almost the leader as at first he was more a member. So it feels like you have insider access as they seem less guarded and willing to open up to him. There is a driving force and passion behind the film. In wanting to let the world know about his father and his accomplishments . As he is obviously proud and in awe of his father and all of them.

The film has archival footage and pictures. As well as many superstar interviews revealing and always with appreciation and gratitude.


GRADE: A-