Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii MCMLXXII ★★★★

Released: 24rd April 2025

Director: Adrian Maben

Pink Floyd of course need no introduction, considered one of the most influential bands of the 1970s (and indeed any decade) who broke out of their prog rock origins to become global superstars. Back in 1972, one of their most iconic live shows was recorded in the ruins of Pompeii and released as a concert film. The film has now been remastered for 4K and IMAX and is being released in cinemas across the globe. Offering an opportunity to see the band in their heyday before they truly broke out with The Dark Side of The Moon.

This is Floyd bridging the gap from the avant-garde Syd Barrett era to a sound that skews closer to their later work. The tracks performed live are mostly from their 1971 album Meddle and earlier works like A Saucerful of Secrets. The group sound ethereal in the stunning setting of the ruins, each member spotlighting their talents whether its David Gilmour’s unique guitar sound or the late Rick Wright’s keyboards. This is the sound of a group operating at the peak of their talents. Obviously with the group long disbanded. This is a chance for younger fans to catch what they were like in a live setting, which more than lives up to the hype.

The film also has some insight from the band on their creative process with archive interviews and some fascinating glimpses at the recording, for what would go on to be The Dark Side of The Moon. An album that very much remains instantly recognisable from its cover and still beloved by millions.

This restoration has done a remarkable job and on the big screen the show sounds incredible, remarkable really that the footage is now over half a century old. The audio has also been re-released so fans can catch the sonic wizardry at home.

The restored Pompeii footage will of course, please die-hard fans but offers enough for more casual fans at an era of Pink Floyd that is overshadowed by the success of Dark Side of The Moon, Wish You Were Here and The Wall. It remains one of the finest concert films of the era and a fascinating glimpse at both their live craft and creative process.