Aneesa Wardle
The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.
TheGatsby
Foals have had a great year. The Oxfordshire quintet scored their biggest hit yet with single 'My Number', their third album 'Holy Fire' made it to number two on the U.K. album charts (being held off the top spot by the 'Les Misérables' soundtrack), the album, in turn, was nominated for the Mercury Prize, they won Best Live Act at the Q Awards and their biggest indoor gig to date, in London's Royal Albert Hall sold out in minutes and went on to garner great reviews. With this Dave Ma directed concert film (the band's first) it's easy to see why, as the band put on a show so good you'll wish you there. Nick Wheeler's visuals are often striking and always pop as the lightshow brightens up the expansive dome, while the sound design is impeccable. Dave Ma's direction is superb, capturing the unbreakable energy of the live performance, as Yannis Philippakis and co. thrive onstage, forming a formidable live unit where each band member is integral. Additionally, we also get a number of insightful glimpses into their behind-the-scenes behaviour, as they muck about backstage, rehearse and discuss their attitude towards making music. Everyone in the audience looks delighted to be there, with many completely losing themselves in the music and even sitting in front of your TV, there's a good chance you will too. This is an immersive, explosive and intense concert film that will leave you wanting more and a Foals ticket.