U2: Rattle and Hum

U2's tribute to the roots of American music, Rattle and Hum may have been somewhat of a disappointment at the box office, but the film offers enough insights to satisfy a larger audience than just fans of the band. As directed by Phil Joanou, the documentary is little more than a paean to the Irish supergroup, but the band is in good form; they carry the film through some of its sluggish moments. Joanou's previous film was the jumpy, frenetic cult hit Three O'Clock High, and though his techniques can be distracting at times, the director's visual flare is well-suited to shooting musical performances. Among the film's highlights are U2 playing Bob Dylan covers, hanging out at Memphis' Sun Studios, and rehearsing and performing with the legendary B.B. King. ~ Brendon Hanley, All Movie Guide