Well I wouldn't buy no merchandise...
Had a few e-mails asking me about a slew of recent Bowie DVD releases and whether they are officially endorsed or, as is the case more often than not, a lot of old toilet best avoided. Generally the rule of thumb is that if we haven't given something a mention on BowieNet before its release, it's unlikely to be officially endorsed.
Having said that, I know there are those of you (OK, us) that need to own everything with the name Bowie attached to it, regardless of it's origin or quality. Nevertheless, we'll continue to try to give you an indication of whether these products are worth spending your cash on.
First up is Starman (above) which is a "2 DISC SPECIAL EDITION - Including a rare and previously unreleased interview CD", it also boasts a 32-page booklet. On the surface Starman seems to be a pukka release in that it's another version of the splendid American A&E Biography Channel DVD. That same DVD was later issued as the region 2 Sound & Vision DVD, which we gave away copies of earlier in the year. (04.12.06 NEWS: DB ON BIOGRAPHY CHANNEL IN UK - WIN DVD)
It looks like it's been licensed again for this Starman release, but I have to say the inclusion of an interview CD normally indicates unofficial product, on account of interview material not normally having any copyright concerns. Anyway, Starman is a region 2 DVD and is out now.
Total Rock Review (above left) is another region 2 release due next month (September 4th) and for this reason I've yet to view a copy. However, the title makes me immediately suspicious that it's another of the myriad 'critical dissection DVDs created for 'educational' purposes. These are often shoddy compilations of poor quality footage using a loophole in copyright law to fleece unsuspecting fans. If I'm proved wrong I'll let you know, but in the meantime I would suggest you avoid Total Rock Review.
No such ambiguities with Music Box Biographical Collection - David Bowie... it's proper crap! But don't take my word for it, BowieNetter Zardoz kindly agreed to view the thing and here follows his conclusions...
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MUSIC BOX BIOGRAPHICAL COLLECTION - DAVID BOWIE
What can I say about this DVD?. Words fail me. Diabolical, amateurish, pish poor, wank. That about sums it up. The short running time of 32 minutes is a blessing in disguise as it is torturous to watch.
An overlayed graphic of a TV screen remains for most of this recycled drivel masking out the content. (Examples above) Two 'expert talking heads' appear from time to time to enlighten us with their insight into all things Bowie. God help us.
It begs the questions: How can these guys get away with this? How many times can the Nationwide footage be ripped off? Why did I buy this?
Avoid at all costs.
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Thanx Zardoz...I think we get the message. Music Box Biographical Collection - David Bowie is not a recommended release!