Queen: Days of Our Lives

Queen: Days of Our Lives chronicles the remarkable journey of one of rock music’s most iconic bands. This two-part BBC documentary offers an in-depth look at Queen’s history, from their humble beginnings to their rise as global superstars.

It begins with the formation of Queen in 1971, when four university students – Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon – came together to create music. It traces their early struggles, including financial difficulties and the challenge of breaking into the music industry. The breakthrough moment comes with their fourth album, “A Night at the Opera,” and the release of their magnum opus, “Bohemian Rhapsody”.

As the story progresses, it showcases the band’s evolution and their ability to reinvent themselves musically. It highlights their stadium-filling tours, record-breaking performances, and the creation of anthems that would become part of rock music’s canon. It also addresses the tensions within the group, their creative differences, and the challenges they faced in maintaining their popularity in different markets, particularly in North America.

The film discusses Queen’s legendary performance at Live Aid in 1985, widely regarded as one of the greatest live performances in rock history. This event marked a resurgence in the band’s career and solidified their status as global icons.

The latter part of the documentary takes a poignant turn as it addresses Freddie Mercury’s battle with AIDS. It reveals how the band rallied around their lead singer, continuing to create music even as Mercury’s health declined. It provides insight into the recording of their final albums with Mercury, including “The Miracle,” “Innuendo,” and the posthumously released “Made in Heaven”.

Throughout, Queen’s music serves as a backdrop, illustrating the band’s diverse musical styles and their impact on popular culture. Interviews with the band members offer personal reflections on their experiences, providing an intimate look at the personalities behind the music.

The film concludes by touching on Queen’s legacy following Mercury’s death in 1991. It covers the tribute concert held in his honor, the band’s collaborations with other artists, and their enduring influence on the music industry. By presenting a comprehensive account of Queen’s journey, it offers a fitting tribute to a band that redefined the boundaries of rock music and left an indelible mark on music history.