The enduring friendship between members of the group Blur is on full display in this moving and beautifully executed rock documentary from director Toby L (Liam Gallagher: Knebworth 22).
Blur: To The End, follows lead singer Damon Albarn, bassist Alex James, guitarist Graham Coxon and drummer Dave Rowntree as they make a surprise return with their first record in 8 years, the critically acclaimed number 1 album The Ballad of Darren. The film follows the band as they get ready to play two historic Wembley stadium gigs in July 2023.
“We were never big enough to play Wembley before” utters Albarn, perhaps not completely seriously, from his studio in the Devon countryside. Hinting at his newly single status after the end of his twenty-five year relationship, Albarn is unravelling in more ways than one. His knees are giving up, and his demeanour isn’t quite as spritely as it once was, but this is not your average out of touch ageing rock star reminiscing on his youth and former glory. This is mostly because Blur have never been that kind of band – if you discount Alex and his often mocked cheese making endeavours and proclivity for mixing with conservative Prime Ministers.
Toby L follows the foursome on a series of small warm-up gigs where the once best friends, re-learn to live with one another now that they’ve put their petty squabbles aside. The foursome seem to be closer than ever and much more forgiving toward one another.
We are often treated to some glimpses of their early days as Damon and Graham pay a visit to their old secondary school in Essex where the music room has been named after them. But on the whole Toby L is seldom tempted to dwell too much on the past, preferring to present the band as they are now. Yes they are older, more tired and more jaded, but they are also much more willing to show their feelings towards one another.
The last chapter of the film focuses on the build up to the first Wembley gigs and the jovial atmosphere around the event. We are even treated to a handful of live performances of some of the band’s most loved tunes.
This is an honest, funny and disarmingly intimate glimpse into one of the greatest British bands of all time. A gripping, moving and thoroughly enjoyable ride. A real love letter to a heroic rock band.
