We Like DVDs: K

The Kids Are Alright

Tommy Burton -- The rock film to end all rock films. This one is refurbished and restored to its original running time and length. While some may quibble that the film itself doesn’t present itself as a true documentary, it has some of the most explosive live performances ever caught on film. The finale of "Won't Get Fooled Again" is pure adrenaline and Pete Townshend's knee-drop is one of my personal all-time favorite rock moments. The film itself has been cleaned up and the audio has been given the full-blown upgrade. Some of the earlier TV appearances by the band couldn't really be helped by 5.1, but when the restoration crew could get their hands on the original master tapes, the results are astonishing. The scenes that benefited the most from this upgrade were the ones shot at Shepperton film studios (including the above-mentioned tune). There are two editions of the DVD out there. There's the no-frills single disc "Deluxe Edition," which contains the film and commentary by director Jeff Stein. The "Special Edition" is a two-disc version featuring a documentary on the film's restoration and others. These include a multi-camera feature that also allows the viewer to listen to John Entwistle's isolated bass track. There is a quiz game that leads to a 5.1 mix of 'Who Are You" that is to die for. It's a must-have for die-hard Who fans. The single disc will suffice for casual fans and rock fans of all shapes and sizes. This DVD has been a long time coming, and it certainly does not disappoint.