New Led Zeppelin Documentary Heading To Theatres!

A new documentary about Led Zeppelin is set to hit theaters soon. Sony Classics Pictures has officially picked up Becoming Led Zeppelin for theatrical release, marking a significant milestone for a film that has been in development for years.

Initially announced in 2019, the documentary was completed by 2021, boasting the approval and participation of the band members. This involvement is particularly noteworthy given Led Zeppelin’s historically tight control over their music and image.

The film made its debut with a rough cut at the Venice Film Festival in September 2021. However, since that initial screening, there has been little news on its wider release, leaving fans in suspense about when, or if, the documentary would become accessible to the general public.

According to Sony Classics, the now finalized version of Becoming Led Zeppelin includes a “brand-new sound mix” and “newly unearthed material from the archives of all four band members.” This indicates that the film has undergone significant enhancements since its festival premiere. Director Bernard McMahon emphasized the cinematic experience, stating, “We have spent years designing this film to be experienced on the big screen with the best possible sound.”

Producer and co-writer Allison McGourty echoed this sentiment, adding, “Sony Pictures Classics are the perfect partners because they are true believers in the theatrical experience and are passionate about giving the millions of Led Zeppelin fans a chance to see and hear them on the greatest screens and sound systems in the world.”

Schedule for the Led Zeppelin Documentary Theater Release

While the announcement did not specify a release date, the mention of the “now completed” film suggests that a theatrical debut could be imminent. Further fueling anticipation, LedZepNews reported in March that recently uncovered footage of the band performing at the Bath Festival on June 28, 1970, has been acquired for the documentary.

Becoming Led Zeppelin is described as a “hybrid docu-concert film,” blending live performance scenes from the band’s 1969 concerts at the Fillmore West, the Atlanta Pop Festival, and the Texas Pop Festival with interviews featuring Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and John Paul Jones. The film also includes archival clips of the late John Bonham.

The documentary delves into the early years of the band members, charting their journey up to the formation of Led Zeppelin and their rapid rise to fame culminating in the success of their second album, Led Zeppelin II. Fans can look forward to a rich, immersive experience that promises to bring the legendary rock band’s history to life on the big screen.