I've always loved Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but like many casual fans, I had a tendency to underrate them. This 3 1/2 hr documentary should go a long way to putting them up there where they belong in the rock pantheon. Bogdanovich gives a warm-hearted and thorough review of the band's thirty-year history. The personal parts of the story are neither glossed over nor sugar-coated, but mercifully they are not allowed to hijack the main theme: Petty's brilliant song-writing and the band's masterful musicianship. I am not, as a rule, a big fan of rockumentaries, but this one is a real gem. Put it on your holiday wish-list!
27 Reviews
The Best Rock Doc Ever
richard-152030 October 2007
The best rock documentary ever! The archival footage of concerts and especially recording sessions is precious! Dylan, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, George Harrison, Roger McGuinn a pantheon of icons all interconnected to the story of TP! Peter Boganovich, did justice to the music and story by not editing this down to a theater friendly 90 minutes. The stories behind the songs were fascinating and I never realized or appreciated Tom's battles with the "industry". Like one of the interviewees commented, I too can remember where I was, what was going on in my life when a certain Tom Petty & Heartbreakers song was astaple of FM rock. 30 years; at the end I felt oh so old, wondering where did the time go?
Absolutely mesmerizing!!!
gsm-178 November 2007
My wife and I didn't blink, except at the end when we were in tears. Honestly people, WATCH THIS DOCUMENTARY!!! I have seen them all, from The Tommy Dorsey Story to this, with Spinal Tap and The Ruttles in between. THIS IS THE BEST MUSIC DOCUMENTARY I HAVE EVER SEEN - BY A LONG WAYS. It is like one of those great songs that literally writes itself.
Peter Bogdanovich deserves an Academy Award. The pacing, the entry and exit from each scene or topic, the feel that is captured, the very subtle nuances, well....they're perfect. Thank you for not detouring away from the core band and their music! Bogdanovich makes the four hours seem like minutes. We didn't want it to stop.
It also helps to have great subject matter, and I now realize why Bogdanovich took on this project - Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers are the Real Deal. What they have given us is overwhelming. And what they went through and put up with in order to do it only adds to their reputation, and to the story itself.
My wife and I keep going back to the DVR and rewinding to scenes or moments that are totally captivating. And, it's true, we were both in tears at the end. It really is that good.
Thank you to Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers for letting us into your intensely fascinating world, to Peter Bogdanovich for capturing it so perfectly, to Tom Petty for staying true to his spirit, to Mike Campbell for showing us that a brilliant lead guitarist can also be reverent and humble and to everyone else - your synergy is an inspiration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Peter Bogdanovich deserves an Academy Award. The pacing, the entry and exit from each scene or topic, the feel that is captured, the very subtle nuances, well....they're perfect. Thank you for not detouring away from the core band and their music! Bogdanovich makes the four hours seem like minutes. We didn't want it to stop.
It also helps to have great subject matter, and I now realize why Bogdanovich took on this project - Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers are the Real Deal. What they have given us is overwhelming. And what they went through and put up with in order to do it only adds to their reputation, and to the story itself.
My wife and I keep going back to the DVR and rewinding to scenes or moments that are totally captivating. And, it's true, we were both in tears at the end. It really is that good.
Thank you to Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers for letting us into your intensely fascinating world, to Peter Bogdanovich for capturing it so perfectly, to Tom Petty for staying true to his spirit, to Mike Campbell for showing us that a brilliant lead guitarist can also be reverent and humble and to everyone else - your synergy is an inspiration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
not simply for Tom Petty fans- anyone who's ever been in a band will relate to it, the nature of rock n roll
Quinoa19841 November 2007
Tom Petty is one of those 'institutions' if one could call it in rock and roll, though maybe that's too harsh a word to put on a man like Petty, who looks about as relaxed and laid back as a multi-millionaire rock star could get. Beneath a cool veneer lays a bit of harsh anger that really only comes out through his music (from time to time, re: early in career), and he and the Heartbreakers have crafted some of the most indelible, simple-but-complex rock songs of the past thirty years. And Peter Bogdanovich does just about his own version of Scorsese's No Direction Home: a portrait of the artist under the circumstances of those around him.
Where Dylan (who is also featured in Running Down a Dream) had his story unfold as being praised/victimized by the audience and by critics, and his own inward and testy personality a part of his genius, Petty's story is much more related to the band and the nature of working with a group that is so tight and run so well that there is never any kind of break-up. We see how Mudcrutch- Petty's original Gainsville, Florida band- broke-up and soon after the Heartbreakers formed, and a sort of bond that grew not really out of anything overt except that a bunch of musicians who were good at what they could do recognized it in one another, and were friends otherwise because they enjoyed what they do. Sounds a little pat, but as it unfolds Boganovich gets into the mindset of the Heartbreakers, how it's not just about Tom and his songwriting (which is rather incredible at times), but what the other contribute, or don't as case may be.
And it's also a great tour of rock and roll history, as if Petty went through the folds of the second half of the 20th century as if the real all-American kind of kid went along through adulthood. First met Elvis, listened to his records non-stop for years, then heard the Beatles and started a band, got into the hippie scene with his band, then went out more ambitiously into LA and got a record deal right away, became part of a music scene that was all his own amid a 'New Wave' that started in the late 70s into the early 80s, then MTV, heavy drugs, rehab with old friends (Dylan, George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynn), superstar again with Full Moon Fever, and a kind of semi-comfortable semi-tense period in the 90s broken by divorce and a realization that America was going down a bad path of corporate and governmental control. Bogdanovich and his editors have done a masterful job of combining the footage of rarity (studio sets, rare concerts, European TV, personal photos and such) and pop kind (those music videos are some of the most entertaining).
If there is something of a letdown it's maybe only subjective: a few of the performances from Gainsville filmed in 2006 (or 2007 I couldn't tell) didn't seem to have to same energy and pizazz of Petty at his best, with the film's title song being the biggest exception. One song in particular, forgetting the name, where Petty scats through most of it also sounds a little 'off'. But one must give credit where credit is always due: for a man like Petty, who could've retired years ago when the greatest hits were released and Last Dance with Mary Jane, a classic from 90s rock that is right up there with the best of Pearl Jam and STP as solid, standard alternative rock, to still be on the road is something inspirational. Just seeing little bits and pieces of how he works creatively, how it 'comes to him' without much effort, and how if there is a lot of effort it's almost a waste of time- and seeing the equal contributions of the band like the keyboardist and Mike the guitarist- are enough to make me want to rush out to get some of their lesser known, interesting albums.
Bottom line, the best rock doc you're likely to see this year, least about a band with the longevity of the Heartbreakers.
Where Dylan (who is also featured in Running Down a Dream) had his story unfold as being praised/victimized by the audience and by critics, and his own inward and testy personality a part of his genius, Petty's story is much more related to the band and the nature of working with a group that is so tight and run so well that there is never any kind of break-up. We see how Mudcrutch- Petty's original Gainsville, Florida band- broke-up and soon after the Heartbreakers formed, and a sort of bond that grew not really out of anything overt except that a bunch of musicians who were good at what they could do recognized it in one another, and were friends otherwise because they enjoyed what they do. Sounds a little pat, but as it unfolds Boganovich gets into the mindset of the Heartbreakers, how it's not just about Tom and his songwriting (which is rather incredible at times), but what the other contribute, or don't as case may be.
And it's also a great tour of rock and roll history, as if Petty went through the folds of the second half of the 20th century as if the real all-American kind of kid went along through adulthood. First met Elvis, listened to his records non-stop for years, then heard the Beatles and started a band, got into the hippie scene with his band, then went out more ambitiously into LA and got a record deal right away, became part of a music scene that was all his own amid a 'New Wave' that started in the late 70s into the early 80s, then MTV, heavy drugs, rehab with old friends (Dylan, George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynn), superstar again with Full Moon Fever, and a kind of semi-comfortable semi-tense period in the 90s broken by divorce and a realization that America was going down a bad path of corporate and governmental control. Bogdanovich and his editors have done a masterful job of combining the footage of rarity (studio sets, rare concerts, European TV, personal photos and such) and pop kind (those music videos are some of the most entertaining).
If there is something of a letdown it's maybe only subjective: a few of the performances from Gainsville filmed in 2006 (or 2007 I couldn't tell) didn't seem to have to same energy and pizazz of Petty at his best, with the film's title song being the biggest exception. One song in particular, forgetting the name, where Petty scats through most of it also sounds a little 'off'. But one must give credit where credit is always due: for a man like Petty, who could've retired years ago when the greatest hits were released and Last Dance with Mary Jane, a classic from 90s rock that is right up there with the best of Pearl Jam and STP as solid, standard alternative rock, to still be on the road is something inspirational. Just seeing little bits and pieces of how he works creatively, how it 'comes to him' without much effort, and how if there is a lot of effort it's almost a waste of time- and seeing the equal contributions of the band like the keyboardist and Mike the guitarist- are enough to make me want to rush out to get some of their lesser known, interesting albums.
Bottom line, the best rock doc you're likely to see this year, least about a band with the longevity of the Heartbreakers.
Great doc
brackenhe3 December 2007
I recently saw Amazing Journey about The Who and thought that was a very good doc. I resisted this one because of the running time (nearly 4 hours) but I sat down this afternoon and watched it. I'm about the same age as Petty so I kind of "grew up" with his music but I forget sometimes how great he is--how profound yet simple his lyrics are. This doc shows his long journey from a kid who just played a little music with his friends to the giant Rock & Roll hall of famer he became. I'll agree with some here who said he appears to be a laid back, go with the flow type of guy. However, there is something just underneath the surface shows how dedicated and driven he is as an artist. Band members came and went but none of them seemed bitter--just grateful to have been part of the experience until separate interests drove them to pursue other things. Even though it's a long film, it moves along and engages the viewer (it probably would help if you're a fan of the music.) All I can say is that toward the end of the movie, I was willing to break my long standing POV that I would never go to another concert. I want to see them in concert now. I probably won't but it did bring back a lot of memories and good feelings about a really great man and his music.
Fantastic rockumentary
rgarbus11 January 2009
I would like to thank Peter Bogdanovich for putting together a wonderful movie that really showcases the song writing talent of Tom Petty and the synergy of the Heartbreakers. I was riveted the entire 4 hours and wanted more so I anxiously perused the bonus material.
The contributions of close friends such as Jeff Lynn and Rick Rubin helped to illustrate the talents of Petty. The interviews with Tom himself show that he a modest man but you see the impact of his music when you realize all the huge hits he had over the decades.
The movie did not go into his personal like much, but it was interesting to learn that Tom was married to his first wife for over 20 years. It was sad to learn about the death of their bass player due to substance abuse.
The contributions of close friends such as Jeff Lynn and Rick Rubin helped to illustrate the talents of Petty. The interviews with Tom himself show that he a modest man but you see the impact of his music when you realize all the huge hits he had over the decades.
The movie did not go into his personal like much, but it was interesting to learn that Tom was married to his first wife for over 20 years. It was sad to learn about the death of their bass player due to substance abuse.
Amazingly done rock and roll documentary
eric-985-50339729 July 2013
Runnin' Down a Dream is a great rock and roll documentary for anyone who likes rock and roll. If you like Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, even better. As you watch it, you can see it was done with that purpose, and by people who share the love for great songs, electric guitars, kick ass solos, stunning drums: What rock and roll is all about.Even being big as it is (almost 4 hours long), the story isn't dragged around and when you realize it will be already over and you'll be wanting to see even more of the incredible story of this great band and especially Tom Petty, a singular creature in a world full of schmucks. You can see the great mojo that was cooked between the band along the years, the good and bad things that happened on the way to success, but you will mostly hear about the music, which is what many of documentaries of bands seem to put in the background. The director let Mike Campbell's guitar solos play until the end, unlike other documentaries that the solo is faded out. The worst thing in the world is to start hearing a great solo and have it cut in the best part. Anyway, it's a wonderful film, really impressed me. Go watch it!
Comprehensive story of a great rock band and writer.
tinmanjs8 November 2017
I absolutely love this documentary. I was told about it on the unfortunate day that Tom left us here on Earth. I've watched it several times and it has renewed my love for his/their music. I thought I was very familiar with most of their music and members but I was sadly mistaken. This was expertly put together by Peter Bogdnovich and it tells the story of the band from inception; essentially in a friends house, all the way through the early 2000's. It shows the band members as they changed, improved, and entertained millions of people worldwide. Tom was a phenomenal writer and the rest of the guys, including Tom, are world class musicians. I never had the privilege of seeing them live and I kick myself for not taking advantage of the times I could have. At close to 4 hours in length it left me hungering for more. What an amazing life they've had. It appears that these guys love working together and truly love each other. The title, "Runnin' down a dream" seems to accurately portray Tom's life because he didn't ever, "...Back Down". As a Hoosier teenager in the '70's, we needed a true rocker to answer to the onslaught of "Disco-mania" that was rolling through the country like an infectious plague. The Heartbreakers were a good solid solution. They became a big part of the soundtrack of our lives. Tom, you are missed by millions of adoring fans. Your impact on our lives will forever be felt in our love of all music. There are tons of other videos on the web but this is definitely on the top of my list.
I loved it...
shidoobie27 December 2008
Warning: Spoilers
This documentary gave the history of a great American band. I loved the fact that there was nobody but Tom Petty and the band giving their synopsis of what really happened. The others that were close to the band, or worked for the band had intelligent input, and that's a good thing. But this is the way I like to see a biography. Truthful, with no agenda on which to attack.
Petty is shown a very gifted songwriter. A loyal friend and brother to his band mates. And he is lucky soul that was able to play and record with his heroes Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Jeff Lynne, and most of all, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. Through all of this, two of his mainstays, Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench stayed loyal to him, and his music, for his and their entire careers.
The things that I liked best was the portrayal of Petty being an artist that didn't compromise his integrity. In his battles against the record labels, their lawyers, and anything else he felt was an injustice, he basically said "I Won't Back Down", and his perseverance pays off every time. And he has so many hit songs... this is something I guess I took for granted. There is a ton of great material he has created over the three decades of his career
I have a new respect for Tom Petty after watching this documentary.
Petty is shown a very gifted songwriter. A loyal friend and brother to his band mates. And he is lucky soul that was able to play and record with his heroes Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Jeff Lynne, and most of all, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. Through all of this, two of his mainstays, Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench stayed loyal to him, and his music, for his and their entire careers.
The things that I liked best was the portrayal of Petty being an artist that didn't compromise his integrity. In his battles against the record labels, their lawyers, and anything else he felt was an injustice, he basically said "I Won't Back Down", and his perseverance pays off every time. And he has so many hit songs... this is something I guess I took for granted. There is a ton of great material he has created over the three decades of his career
I have a new respect for Tom Petty after watching this documentary.
Mammoth, comprehensive chronicle of one of the great rock acts of the 20th century...
moonspinner5526 June 2010
It isn't enough to say this documentary charts the ups and down, the triumphs and tragedies, the hits and unintentional misses of a great American rock and roll band. This very special (and entertaining) document is a definitive statement, not just of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers but of the music business of the 1970s through the 1990s. Peter Bogdanovich (a very interesting source as director) has compiled fabulous footage and minutiae together with recently-filmed interviews with band members, producers, celebrity friends, and musical cohorts to form a testament to a sensational music act. Bogdanovich doesn't even have to try hard to keep this lengthy (238 minutes) movie from lagging; it never does. Lead singer/guitarist/songwriter Tom Petty says at one point, "Nobody cares how a record is made. They only care if they like it." He is, in fact, incorrect here. Well-done documentaries such as this MAKE people care how a record is made, regardless if it hits the charts or not. The running commentary on album gestation, touring, behind-the-scenes turmoil, musical differences, and personality clashes is the stuff of legend. All of it combines to make one hell of a journey, the cinematic equivalent of a CD box-set. ***1/2 from ****
Great trip for children of the 60s
njbriggs-542-7675754 July 2013
If you were a teenager during the turbulent 60s and have even a passing interest in Petty's music, you should thoroughly enjoy this film. I'm about the same age as Petty and can totally relate to the influences that drove him to rock stardom. This movie was a real trip down memory lane and a huge eye opener in terms of the talents of Petty and his amazing band. Its a remarkable story really given Petty's very modest background and growing up in the somewhat rural Gainesville Florida. Fortunately, the University of Florida is there, which provided Petty's early band with an eager audience during the formative years. Even more amazing is how at one point, they simply decided to drive to California with some audition tapes and get a contract. And they did! Who knew it was so easy, although there were plenty of bumps along the way. The movie also provides pretty good insight into the ugly underbelly of the music industry and how they manipulate new artists to their own ends. If you are not a huge Petty fan, you will probably be surprised by how many hits this band had. It's pretty remarkable. All the more so that they can still play them all to perfection, despite their advancing age. Few groups of this age can make that claim. I wasn't a huge Petty fan until I saw this documentary. I was so impressed by Petty the person, and a realization that a lot of their songs were pretty easy to play (just from watching them play, I recognized the basic chords), that I took up guitar again after a 40 year hiatus. And I have actually become a much better guitar player than when I quit in frustration as a teenager. Its a fun ride with some intriguing personalities. Petty comes off as a pretty down to earth person, as does most of his band. A refreshing difference from the huge egos that dominate the rock world. Also be prepared to be surprised at how many huge artists Petty collaborated with, from George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash. He is a pretty remarkable fellow.
Movie that thankfully was made.
daviddunkin1 October 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I'm a huge Tom Petty fan and somehow missed this movie. It's very entertaining and as another person said, anyone who likes rock and roll, will enjoy it. Also, I learned many things I didn't know.
The early years of Tom Petty and the band are really fun to watch. I really liked all the interviews mixed in with concert footage and great old home movies.
I like Peter Bogdanovich also and all I can say is I'm so happy he made this movie . It was wonderful to watch but very sad also .
Great Doc for Fans
salsoulscomedy21 October 2017
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Running Down a Dream is a great documentary for fans of the band. It has interviews with Petty and all of the key band members past and present, producers, family and others around the band. Great stories from them are mixed with past recordings of them when they were younger and lots of more recent live performances at various concerts.
It covers the entire history of the band up until the time the documentary was made (2007). I loved the documentary as a big fan of the group.
The only downside is that for non fans and even for more casual fans the doc has an incredibly long run time of about four hours. For me it flew by but the others got a bit bored. Maybe a version with less performances would have been a good idea to keep the great history and story in a more compact run time. They play almost entire songs during the doc so if you're not into that particular song you might be looking for the fast forward button.
It covers the entire history of the band up until the time the documentary was made (2007). I loved the documentary as a big fan of the group.
The only downside is that for non fans and even for more casual fans the doc has an incredibly long run time of about four hours. For me it flew by but the others got a bit bored. Maybe a version with less performances would have been a good idea to keep the great history and story in a more compact run time. They play almost entire songs during the doc so if you're not into that particular song you might be looking for the fast forward button.
Could Have Been Better
robert-64220 January 2008
I bought this on both the name of Petty and Bogdanovich. Alas I didn't think Bogdanovich did as best as he could. Why for example include extracts from the "Gainesville Concert" in the two narrative DVD's when they are already on the Gainesville concert DVD? Padding out or what? I struggle to believe that he and his team went through thousands or hundreds of hours of clips. As I write this I am beginning to wonder if they only used Bogdanovich as a 'selling name'. In reality no director was needed. Rather it would have been better with a ruthless editor.
It was an interesting bio-rock venture that could have been done much better by the BBC's "Arena" team. I feel Scorcese's "The Band's Last Waltz" set the high bar in rock music bio-pics. Sadly Petty and Bogdanovich didn't reach the bar.
It was an interesting bio-rock venture that could have been done much better by the BBC's "Arena" team. I feel Scorcese's "The Band's Last Waltz" set the high bar in rock music bio-pics. Sadly Petty and Bogdanovich didn't reach the bar.
Great Doc
Michael_Elliott27 February 2008
Running Down a Dream (2007)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Peter Bogdanovich's mammoth documentary about the history of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers runs a few minutes short of four hours so needless to say there's a lot of information. I think the film's biggest problem is the fact that it runs so long because even the smallest detail of something will get too much attention and by the time the fourth hour was nearing it was really hurting me. Perhaps it would have been best to watch it in two parts as it is offered up this way. Even with that said, this is a very impressive look at the group, which covers their early bands all the way up to their most recent album. Petty and the group aren't shy about sharing their feelings and this leads to some great and sometimes sad stories. Their battle with their record label is covered in great detail as is their 1986-87 tour with Bob Dylan, The Traveling Wilburys days and even their brief work with Johnny Cash. Stevie Nicks, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne and various others are interviewed along the way. Another great thing is that Petty must have known they would take off one day because he videotaped all of his early stuff including his original drive to L.A. when they were searching for a record deal. All of this behind the scenes footage is terrific as is the concert footage.
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Peter Bogdanovich's mammoth documentary about the history of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers runs a few minutes short of four hours so needless to say there's a lot of information. I think the film's biggest problem is the fact that it runs so long because even the smallest detail of something will get too much attention and by the time the fourth hour was nearing it was really hurting me. Perhaps it would have been best to watch it in two parts as it is offered up this way. Even with that said, this is a very impressive look at the group, which covers their early bands all the way up to their most recent album. Petty and the group aren't shy about sharing their feelings and this leads to some great and sometimes sad stories. Their battle with their record label is covered in great detail as is their 1986-87 tour with Bob Dylan, The Traveling Wilburys days and even their brief work with Johnny Cash. Stevie Nicks, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne and various others are interviewed along the way. Another great thing is that Petty must have known they would take off one day because he videotaped all of his early stuff including his original drive to L.A. when they were searching for a record deal. All of this behind the scenes footage is terrific as is the concert footage.
Superb documentary on a brilliant band
grantss14 November 2021
A documentary on the rock band Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, covering their history from their earliest times plus featuring interviews with the band members and other artists and including extensive live performances and studio footage.
An outstanding documentary. I was a bit wary of this when I saw that it was four hours long but needn't have worried. Oscar-nominated director Peter Bogdanovich (Paper Moon, The Last Picture Show, Noises Off..., The Cat's Meow) crafts a documentary that is unrelentingly engaging and interesting, making the four hours just fly by.
The history is well told, largely through interviews with the band itself. No aspect gets too much weight or causes the broader narrative to drift. These interviews also give a great feeling of the camaraderie within the band and the ups and downs they experienced together.
The non-band interviews gives a sense of the outsider's view plus give a great sense of the bands standing within rock's pantheon. These interviews include some great artists an celebrities in themselves: George Harrison, Stevie Nicks, Jeff Lynne, Dave Stewart, Jackson Browne, Johnny Depp, Dave Grohl, Jimmy Iovine, Rick Rubin.
Another aspect that sets this documentary apart from the average musical documentary is the music itself. It's great, of course, but instead of just brief snippets of songs we have entire live tracks, generally played within the context of the narrative. This helps the flow of the narrative, reminds you of what makes that particular album/song so great and illustrates the band dynamic.
One of the greatest music documentaries.
An outstanding documentary. I was a bit wary of this when I saw that it was four hours long but needn't have worried. Oscar-nominated director Peter Bogdanovich (Paper Moon, The Last Picture Show, Noises Off..., The Cat's Meow) crafts a documentary that is unrelentingly engaging and interesting, making the four hours just fly by.
The history is well told, largely through interviews with the band itself. No aspect gets too much weight or causes the broader narrative to drift. These interviews also give a great feeling of the camaraderie within the band and the ups and downs they experienced together.
The non-band interviews gives a sense of the outsider's view plus give a great sense of the bands standing within rock's pantheon. These interviews include some great artists an celebrities in themselves: George Harrison, Stevie Nicks, Jeff Lynne, Dave Stewart, Jackson Browne, Johnny Depp, Dave Grohl, Jimmy Iovine, Rick Rubin.
Another aspect that sets this documentary apart from the average musical documentary is the music itself. It's great, of course, but instead of just brief snippets of songs we have entire live tracks, generally played within the context of the narrative. This helps the flow of the narrative, reminds you of what makes that particular album/song so great and illustrates the band dynamic.
One of the greatest music documentaries.
Wanted so badly to give 10 out of 10...
Mad Slovak21 October 2007
Warning: Spoilers
...but a late innings entry to the film made it impossible. I realize Jim Ladd was the inspiration behind the title of Petty's pretty decent but still flawed The Last DJ concept album, but Ladd's hippie-drippy whining about Ronald Reagan's deregulation of the airwaves in the 80s not only offered erroneous information (gee, want the (un-)Fairness Doctrine reinstated Jimmy-boy?), but took up film-time that would have been better served discussing Petty's power-to-the-people embracing of the internet for music distribution and yet another battle with his record label over it. Allowing this victim-minded commentary into the movie totally plays opposite to the outstanding portrayal of Petty as a fighter, rebel and survivor throughout the rest of Running..., definitely not to any benefit, either.
Otherwise, pheeee-flippin'-nomenal portrait of one of America's greatest rock bands. Extra props for including so much about Damn the Torpedoes and all the hell Petty went through in order to get it released. Second only to Hail! Hail! Rock and Roll for rock documentaries.
Otherwise, pheeee-flippin'-nomenal portrait of one of America's greatest rock bands. Extra props for including so much about Damn the Torpedoes and all the hell Petty went through in order to get it released. Second only to Hail! Hail! Rock and Roll for rock documentaries.
Tremendous Documentary
gary-4448 January 2011
A sprawling, glorious, epic documentary of one of American Rock's survivors and veterans which at almost four hours, is probably only about fifteen minutes too long. Commissioned by Petty, Director Bogdanovic has produced a classic in the genre. It's success is due to Petty's long and productive career, Petty's wry and lucid reminiscences , access to some excellent archive footage, and shrewd editing. The running time works out at about an hour per ten years of musical career which in that context is fair enough.It is particularly strong in covering the formative years pre-Heartbreakers.
As a long standing fan from the Heartbreakers first album, it was a sweet trip down memory lane. Played out chronologically, there is abundant rehearsal, live and promotional footage from pretty much every era with thoughtful and insightful commentary from Petty and band members throughout. Yet this is a vanity project, albeit a very good one. And although as a testament to a fine career it is about "Best in Class", inevitably there are some critical holes in it.
Their "break" in England, which launched their career is sketchily explained. The eponymous first album, launched as Punk/New Wave was about to overwhelm England, is a deeply conservative and derivative, traditional American Rock record. The only concession to the time was that no song was longer than four minutes, and four of the ten were under three. That they prospered was down to the fact that without those short songs, they would never have been played on the radio, that this was no "new band"- it was a road tested and honed unit with fine musicians, and that they had an "anchor song" in "American Girl" which is still played as the highlight of their set 34 years later.
When "You're Gonna Get it" came out Punk/New wave ruled. Again Petty trimmed. This time six of the ten songs were under three minutes, the cover shot was a broody, moody menacing one, and single choices "You're Gonna get it" and "I Need to Know" were consistent with the musical zeitgeist. How much of this was down to Producer Denny Cordell, how much Petty and how much unknown figures at Shelter Records was unexplained, but it worked.
The Knebworth appearance, which I saw, in 1978 is strangely missed out. It was the moment they came of age. Headliners were Genesis, they were third on the bill behind Jefferson Starship, but ahead of Devo, Brand X and the Atlanta Rhythm Section. In front of 120,000 fans they played a sharp convincing 45 minute set which demonstrated that they had the songs, and presence, to make it. How they got the gig and their recollections of it, would have been fascinating.
As a fan, I am a huge admirer of Petty's music, but it is curious how few crossover great songs he has produced. Beyond "American Girl" you are struggling outside of the converted, and none of his albums really earns "classic" status. Is he a poor man's Southern Springsteen? Yet his pedigree and longevity are undisputed? Howcome? This is not explored. I believe it is down to Petty's ability to absorb and then reinvent familiar sounds. You get recognisable, clever well crafted songs, but never anything truly original. He is a synthesiser of musical styles not an originator.
To Petty's credit, tensions within the band are laid bare. Jimmy Iovine's scarcely disguised contempt for Stan Lynch's drumming is starkly exposed as is bassist Howie Epsteins fatal drug addiction. The mystery of the arson attack on Petty's home remains just that. The mutual love-in between Stevie Nicks and Petty is another delight. Her obvious infatuation with the band is lavishly covered, and the soft focus shots of her in interview suggest that Petty was at the very least flattered.
The Travelling Wilbury's era with Jeff Lynne gives the film a lift although it is a shame that Dylan could not have been persuaded to say a few words. That notwithstanding, Dave Stewart, George Harrison, Dave Grohl and Johnny Depp ensure that Petty is never light of celebrity endorsement.
A delight, and essential viewing for fans, and an education for all music buffs interested in American Rock post 1970's.
As a long standing fan from the Heartbreakers first album, it was a sweet trip down memory lane. Played out chronologically, there is abundant rehearsal, live and promotional footage from pretty much every era with thoughtful and insightful commentary from Petty and band members throughout. Yet this is a vanity project, albeit a very good one. And although as a testament to a fine career it is about "Best in Class", inevitably there are some critical holes in it.
Their "break" in England, which launched their career is sketchily explained. The eponymous first album, launched as Punk/New Wave was about to overwhelm England, is a deeply conservative and derivative, traditional American Rock record. The only concession to the time was that no song was longer than four minutes, and four of the ten were under three. That they prospered was down to the fact that without those short songs, they would never have been played on the radio, that this was no "new band"- it was a road tested and honed unit with fine musicians, and that they had an "anchor song" in "American Girl" which is still played as the highlight of their set 34 years later.
When "You're Gonna Get it" came out Punk/New wave ruled. Again Petty trimmed. This time six of the ten songs were under three minutes, the cover shot was a broody, moody menacing one, and single choices "You're Gonna get it" and "I Need to Know" were consistent with the musical zeitgeist. How much of this was down to Producer Denny Cordell, how much Petty and how much unknown figures at Shelter Records was unexplained, but it worked.
The Knebworth appearance, which I saw, in 1978 is strangely missed out. It was the moment they came of age. Headliners were Genesis, they were third on the bill behind Jefferson Starship, but ahead of Devo, Brand X and the Atlanta Rhythm Section. In front of 120,000 fans they played a sharp convincing 45 minute set which demonstrated that they had the songs, and presence, to make it. How they got the gig and their recollections of it, would have been fascinating.
As a fan, I am a huge admirer of Petty's music, but it is curious how few crossover great songs he has produced. Beyond "American Girl" you are struggling outside of the converted, and none of his albums really earns "classic" status. Is he a poor man's Southern Springsteen? Yet his pedigree and longevity are undisputed? Howcome? This is not explored. I believe it is down to Petty's ability to absorb and then reinvent familiar sounds. You get recognisable, clever well crafted songs, but never anything truly original. He is a synthesiser of musical styles not an originator.
To Petty's credit, tensions within the band are laid bare. Jimmy Iovine's scarcely disguised contempt for Stan Lynch's drumming is starkly exposed as is bassist Howie Epsteins fatal drug addiction. The mystery of the arson attack on Petty's home remains just that. The mutual love-in between Stevie Nicks and Petty is another delight. Her obvious infatuation with the band is lavishly covered, and the soft focus shots of her in interview suggest that Petty was at the very least flattered.
The Travelling Wilbury's era with Jeff Lynne gives the film a lift although it is a shame that Dylan could not have been persuaded to say a few words. That notwithstanding, Dave Stewart, George Harrison, Dave Grohl and Johnny Depp ensure that Petty is never light of celebrity endorsement.
A delight, and essential viewing for fans, and an education for all music buffs interested in American Rock post 1970's.
MAGNIFICENT
marymckovich13 January 2021
Great Documentary on Tom Petty and more
ElessarAndurilS11 August 2016
Being a fan of Tom Petty I was naturally interested in this documentary. The thing that impressed me was how I lived all of this, listened, read, watched and yet didn't know so many details of the heights of success that Tom Petty and the band had reached. Even more interesting was the influences on him and that he has had on others in the industry. I've always been impressed with how the guy writes music that just keeps coming. In many ways like the Beatles albums, so many good songs, simple classic songs are on almost every album he works on with the heart-breakers, alone or in tandem with other artists. The adulation he receives from so many other stars like Stevie Nicks and George H. are just moving as to the dedication and talent he has. I just liked him before seeing this documentary, after I realize how ignorant I was of how good he truly is. Before I just liked so much of his music it was impressive, after I see that he has touched a lot more than me and just keeps on going. One of the few people I have seen on film where it seems like you could just walk up to him and shake his hand telling him how his music has touched your life and after all these years he would still truly appreciate the compliment and not just brush it off. Seems like a class guy and gotta love how he has effected the industry.
Amazing - a must watch!
SNance138 August 2021
Absolutely loved it. Only wish Bogdanovich would pick up from where he left off in 2007 and finish the story. It was 4 hours so worth watching of what a true musician songwriter storyteller artist Rock n Roll band accomplished. I can chronicle my life by these songs. So meaningful and profound for me.
Real.
colonel-130702 April 2020
Lengthy Tom Petty doc nicely layed out.
st-shot3 July 2010
When the golden age of rock (63-77) ended Tom Petty along with Bruce Springsteen (though he was clearly established at this point) were probably the only fresh newcomers to match and carry on the tradition of the genre with consistently good music for a generation. Unlike poser Springsteen and his crew Petty and the Heartbreakers seem to be a more down to earth self effacing lot and this translates well in Peter Bogdanovich's everything you wanted to know about Petty and the Heartbreakers four hour documentary. In spite of it's length Bogdanovich does an excellent job of keeping things flowing but the length and breath of Petty's discography is what makes Dream soar with live stage performances featuring the remarkable musical talents of lead guitarist Mike Campbell.
Unlike rock doc impresario Martin Scorsese (The Last Waltz and a recent Imax doc featuring 30 foot Keith Richards) Bogdanovich approach is straight forward, the boys are forthcoming, genuinely modest and the music speaks for itself. They soberly discuss the problems of rock stardom, working as a team, losing and adding members the toll drugs took on the band as well as a David and Goliath contract dispute with MCA. Petty is both candid and unpretentious about his music, more a working stiff than the messiahs (ala Springsteen) who prattle on about their musics importance to preserving mankind.
Fan or not (I happen to be a big one)Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream is a well made documentary featuring plenty of insight on a super group who avoided sensationalism and stage theatrics and simply and powerfully produced what they were on stage for - rock and roll without the sermonizing.
Unlike rock doc impresario Martin Scorsese (The Last Waltz and a recent Imax doc featuring 30 foot Keith Richards) Bogdanovich approach is straight forward, the boys are forthcoming, genuinely modest and the music speaks for itself. They soberly discuss the problems of rock stardom, working as a team, losing and adding members the toll drugs took on the band as well as a David and Goliath contract dispute with MCA. Petty is both candid and unpretentious about his music, more a working stiff than the messiahs (ala Springsteen) who prattle on about their musics importance to preserving mankind.
Fan or not (I happen to be a big one)Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream is a well made documentary featuring plenty of insight on a super group who avoided sensationalism and stage theatrics and simply and powerfully produced what they were on stage for - rock and roll without the sermonizing.
A treat for fans, a gripping primer for newcomers
rick_710 June 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream (Peter Bogdanovich, 2007) attempts to do for the Heartbreakers what Scorsese's No Direction Home did for Dylan - and turns out astonishingly well. Bogdanovich weaves his epic tale of artistic integrity, human tragedy and lasting friendship via interviews, live footage and a wealth of home video and in-studio footage that stretches back to the band's formative weeks. Petty and the group - including fellow founders Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench - are often bracingly candid as they chart their journey from young upstarts bundled in with the burgeoning punk scene to wiser, though no less ambitious, old-timers. Their story takes in ego-driven rifts, substance abuse and the death of bassist Howie Epstein from heroin addiction, as well as the frontman's personal battles with industry bigwigs. There's one telling moment where the singer says: "People ask if it seems like 30 years. It seems like a hell of a lot longer", but this four-hour portrait has entirely the opposite effect, fairly flying by in a blaze of irressistible melodies and telling soundbytes. Fittingly, each band member is given an introductory sketch and a significant amount of screen time. There are also sub-sections dedicated to key themes, like the source of Petty's ambition (a single-minded drive that sees him pinch songs and band members from various collaborators) and the creative process.
Though the movie's first three or four musical clips may make you wonder just how the group acquired such a fanatical fanbase, the next 40 will leave you in no doubt, as Petty emerges as a composer and performer of rare talent, happening upon songs as timeless and diverse as Don't Do Me Like That, Here Comes My Girl, The Waiting, Southern Accents, The Best of Everything, Free Fallin' and Learning to Fly. Bogdanovich occasionally fixates on the wrong details uncovered during interviews (surely Petty's descent into drug abuse is more interesting than the fact he broke his hand?), certain passages don't pack the wallop they rightly should and there's a slight dip in the last 25 as the director takes us up to date, but for the most part this is a fascinating film that gives one of America's greatest songwriters his due and reveals the inestimable part the Heartbreakers have played in his legacy. It's also an arresting portrait of a nonconformist - or "a badass", as Dave Grohl calls him - with Petty fighting MCA for the rights to his songs, stopping them from hiking up the price of his 1981 record Hard Promises and preventing his hero Roger McGuinn from selling out. If Runnin' Down a Dream isn't in the same league as No Direction Home, that's largely because Dylan's story has no equal in modern popular culture. This is still a major work - and a hugely entertaining one at that.
Though the movie's first three or four musical clips may make you wonder just how the group acquired such a fanatical fanbase, the next 40 will leave you in no doubt, as Petty emerges as a composer and performer of rare talent, happening upon songs as timeless and diverse as Don't Do Me Like That, Here Comes My Girl, The Waiting, Southern Accents, The Best of Everything, Free Fallin' and Learning to Fly. Bogdanovich occasionally fixates on the wrong details uncovered during interviews (surely Petty's descent into drug abuse is more interesting than the fact he broke his hand?), certain passages don't pack the wallop they rightly should and there's a slight dip in the last 25 as the director takes us up to date, but for the most part this is a fascinating film that gives one of America's greatest songwriters his due and reveals the inestimable part the Heartbreakers have played in his legacy. It's also an arresting portrait of a nonconformist - or "a badass", as Dave Grohl calls him - with Petty fighting MCA for the rights to his songs, stopping them from hiking up the price of his 1981 record Hard Promises and preventing his hero Roger McGuinn from selling out. If Runnin' Down a Dream isn't in the same league as No Direction Home, that's largely because Dylan's story has no equal in modern popular culture. This is still a major work - and a hugely entertaining one at that.
Completely engrossing 4-hour documentary on a legendary performer from a legendary director
a_chinn1 August 2019
Epic length documentary fully immerses you in the life and career of American rock and roll icons Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Directed by the talented Peter Bogdanovich, better known for classic films like "The Last Picture Show," "Saint Jack" and "They All Laughed," the documentary follows the band from high school all the way to the present. The film took over two years to complete and is a comprehensive look into the band, their music, and their artistry. The film is comprised of interviews, concert footage, home videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and music videos. Watching the film, I was amazed at how many great songs Petty and company have produced. It's staggering! And after spending four hours listening wall-to-wall music, hearing from just about everyone involved speak and perform, you really gain an appreciation for their work and the influence they've had on the music scene. Learning about the band dynamics was also fascinating. Unlike a band like The Rolling Stones or U2, where all band members are seemingly equal, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers definitely have a leader in Petty. As shown in the documentary, even when Petty branched out for solo work, Heartbreakers more often than not ended up following Petty to collaborate on those projects. Or when Petty changed his style, most of the band followed his lead. "Runnin' Down a Dream" is a journey of a film and a fascinating portrait of one of the great rock bands of all time. Interestingly, Bogdanovich was completely unfamiliar with Petty prior to making this movie. Bogdanovich said he was asked by a mutual friend of his and Petty if he was interested in directing the movie, and he always say yes, but after saying yes he said he then called his ex-wife and asked, "Remind me who Tom Petty is. Is he a folk singer?"
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
