In her documentary debut, Mary McCartney tells the story of the Abbey Road Studios building since it was purchased by the former Gramophone Company in 1929 and converted into a recording studio.
Chronologically, it covers selected milestones in music history that emerged from Abbey Road, including Edward Elgar’s first recording in 1931, Cliff Richard’s studios’ first rock ‘n’ roll hit, the Beatles era and the recording of film soundtracks in the 1980s. As a director, McCartney has dedicated herself to music, but there is no brief digression on the comedy recordings by Peter Sellers, for example, with which George Martin was successful before the Beatles.
Like a personal tour
Despite the meticulous historical approach, McCartney’s personal connection makes the documentation particularly effective. The photographer begins by telling who Abbey Road Studios has been part of her life for as long as she can remember. One of her first memories of the recording studio is why she wanted to make the film: Her parents, Paul and Linda, ride Pony Jet across the crosswalk in front of the building. This approach gives the documentary a special flair and makes it seem approachable and homely. The film feels like a private tour of the (almost sacred) premises.
The conversations McCartney had with her father Paul, Elton John, Roger Waters, David Gilmore and Ringo Starr, among others, intensify the feeling. There is a familiar atmosphere between the interlocutors, which noticeably benefits the documentation. The music greats light-heartedly tell their stories about the recording studio. Scenes with Giles Martin, who sits between tapes at the recording equipment, explains them, alludes to songs and reminisces, reinforce the impression.
Sometimes the desire for more remains
With her pictures, conversations and various archive material, McCartney manages to capture and revive the spirit of the studio and the time. The 90 minutes in which she takes you into the history of Abbey Road Studios are by no means enough to go into all the big hit productions. That’s why the director has selected a few titles and musicians whose stories she initially tells quickly and vividly. Some content is neglected and the longing for more information remains.
As it progresses, McCartney tends to report longer and more extensively. However, she focuses on well-known stories, such as Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side Of The Moon” sessions. In addition, the documentary manages to address the Beatles at every point. Their legacy is now inextricably linked to Abbey Road Studios. Nevertheless, it would be desirable if the focus were not on the stories that have already been told often enough, but on lesser-known recordings.
Interview with Mary McCartney
ROLLING STONE spoke to Mary McCartney about the challenges and joys of making the Abbey Road documentary. You can find the full video interview HERE.
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