Taylor Swift’s concert event of the year The Eras Tour is now also the cinematic event of the year – possibly decade. What Swift has crafted with the eras’ tour is nothing short of legendary, a once in a generation artist creating a once in a generation show which spans 17 years of music & 10 albums, the stage shows lasting over three hours and the film just short of.
Sam Wrench turns what could’ve been a quick cash-grab to capitalise off the tour into a magnetic, immersive concert experience – up there with the greatest concert documentaries. He doesn’t shy away from both intimate close ups and large-scale shots of the entire stadium, while also showing off some camera wizardry with his full coverage of the stage. No detail goes unnoticed.
Swift herself gives a wonderous performance – opening with the long-underappreciated hit Cruel Summer to welcome in the Lover era segment of the show. One notable omission – The Archer – a definite fan-favourite may leave some viewers scratching their heads. However, it isn’t the only omission from stage-to-screen with other fan favourites like Wildest Dreams not making the cut. The flow of the concert does not falter without these, and one can only presume they were cut for time.
The two highlights of the film are the Reputation & Folklore segments. The former opening with a giant snake slithering over the stage before Ready For It…? starts to play and the latter featuring some of the best note changes from the original studio versions in The 1, Illicit Affairs & The Last Great American Dynasty. It’s brilliant to see Folklore get what it deserves after it’s release during the pandemic.
Unsurprisingly, Our Song is the first surprise song, with Taylor Swift being the only album without a regular segment on the show. The second, You’re On Your Own Kid, a newer track from Midnights, is a fantastic track and feels like a fitting choice.
This leads onto the final section, Midnights, with hits such as Anti-Hero. All culminating in show closer, Karma, an upbeat number with sparkly attire & fireworks to end the night.
The Eras Tour film is a stunning concert epic with immersive cinematography, a perfect setlist – despite some questionable cuts & a fantastic performance from Taylor Swift. It’s a must-see for anyone, and may even turn non-fans into die-hard swifties.
Featured Image Credit: Taylor Swift Productions
He/Him
Film & Media & Journalism Student
Here to review, discuss & celebrate all things film.
contact me: bem00218@students.stir.ac.uk
