Directed by: Ken Russell
Starring: Roger Daltrey and Ringo Starr
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Release Date: August 7th, 2012
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 103 minutes
Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
I have to admit, I have never heard of the film “Liztomania” before it showed up on my doorsteps, thanks to Warner Archive. Boy, I was very happy to have seen this film. I am a big fan of Roger Daltrey and he is such a hoot in this film. He is over-the-top and does what he does best sings! We even get guest appearances other rock legends like Ringo Starr. The film is filled with woman, music, what else can you ask for? It is set in the 1840’s but really plays like a film in the 70’s. It has these unbelievable stage production and large scale feel. I have to say overall it is just one hell of a trip, literally.
The film is also outrageous funny and feels like “Pink Floyd: The Wall” meets “The Beatles: Yellow Submarine but on acid…and that is saying something for sure. The DVD presentation looks great and comes sporting 16X9 letterbox and with its original aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The audio track is Dolby Digital Mono track but it works well. The film has a bunch of musically tracks throughout and it definitely doesn’t disappoint. Thanks again for Warner Archive for releasing this musical gem.
Synopsis: The shaggy-maned idol rips into his song – and the audience screams with excitement. Some ecstatic fans storm the stage, wanting simply to touch him. Some want to bear his child. One adoring woman announces she already has. And outside the hall, a horse-drawn carriage waits to whisk the performer away. Meet Franz Liszt (Roger Daltrey), rock star, circa 1840. And great ready for all the glitter, groupies and gaudy good times of Lisztomania. The incredible list of frenzied delights goes on and on in this splendiferous extravaganza from writer/director Ken Russell, whose works include Women in Love, Altered States and Crimes of Passion. He takes you where no one else does. Or dares. Brace yourself for Lisztomania. Viewers expecting a polite gathering of people neatly posed on Louis XVI furniture are going to be blown out of their chairs, but good!