Pink Floyd’s legendary 1972 concert film, Live at Pompeii, is making its grand return to theaters and IMAX on April 24, Sony Music has announced. This newly restored edition of the iconic performance will, for the first time, be accompanied by a live album, further immersing audiences in the band's atmospheric and groundbreaking show.
A Landmark in Music History
Widely regarded as one of the most influential rock bands of all time, Pink Floyd revolutionized music with albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall. Live at Pompeii stands as a pivotal moment in their history, offering fans a rare glimpse of the band just before their meteoric rise to global fame.
Filmed in October 1971, the performance took place in the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater in Pompeii. Unlike traditional concerts, this event featured no live audience—only the band and a film crew—creating an eerily intimate and powerful atmosphere. Using their touring equipment, including a mobile 8-track tape recorder, Pink Floyd delivered a setlist featuring classics such as Echoes, A Saucerful of Secrets, and One of These Days.
Influence and Gilmour’s Return
Live at Pompeii has left a lasting impact on the world of music, influencing countless artists and inspiring the visual style of numerous music videos and concerts. Bands such as Beastie Boys, KoRn, and Radiohead have all cited the film as a major influence.
In 2016, Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour returned to the historic amphitheater for two solo performances, marking the first time an audience had attended a concert at the site since ancient Roman times. These shows paid tribute to the band's deep connection to the location and its significance in their legacy.
A Glimpse Before Global Stardom
According to a press release, Live at Pompeii captures Pink Floyd at a crucial turning point, just before the release of The Dark Side of the Moon, the album that would cement their status as rock legends. The film not only showcases the band’s evolving sound but also includes rare behind-the-scenes footage from their recording sessions at Abbey Road Studios.
A Masterful Restoration
The restoration process was undertaken using the original 35mm negatives, which were only recently rediscovered. “Since 1994, I’ve been searching for the original film rushes of Live at Pompeii, so discovering the 35mm negatives cut in 1972 was a very special moment,” said Lana Topham, Pink Floyd’s Restoration Director, in an interview with NME.
This newly restored version presents, for the first time, the full 90-minute cut, combining the original 60-minute concert montage with additional documentary footage from Abbey Road Studios.
With its return to theaters and IMAX, Live at Pompeii offers both lifelong fans and newcomers the chance to experience this legendary performance in stunning clarity and depth.
