Pink Floyd at Pompeii – Coventry Theatre 1974

 

Pink Floyd at Pompeii – Coventry Theatre 1974

by Pete Clemons

2025 has seen the return of the groundbreaking 1972 film Pink Floyd at Pompeii. Although now titled Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII.

This new version has been digitally re-mastered in 4K from the original 35mm footage with enhanced audio.

Those who remember the film will be familiar with its setting in the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Pompeii, Italy.

The film captures Pink Floyd performing an intimate concert without an audience filmed over four days during October 1971. There they performed unforgettable tracks such as “Echoes,” “A Saucerful of Secrets,” and “One of These Days.”

The breathtaking visuals of the amphitheatre, captured both day and night, amplify the magic of the performance, creating a unique and immersive experience. Additional footage filmed in a Paris television studio the following December was added for the original 1972 release.

The film was scheduled for a special premiere at London's Rainbow Theatre, on 25 November 1972. It was cancelled at the last minute by the theatre's owner as they didn't have a certificate from the British Board of Film Censors and the theatre could be seen to be in competition with established cinemas

After that stalled release the film was eventually premiered on 10 November 1973, at the Alouette Theatre in Montreal. General release and screening took place in the US during April 74

It was then re-released into the UK slightly later in 1974. By this time it had been furnished with additional behind-the-scenes glimpses of the band working on the then forthcoming and iconic 'The Dark Side of the Moon' album. If that wasn't enough interviews captured at Abbey Road Studios, London also enhanced it's eventual release.

As I remember it, demand for the film was huge. So big, in fact, that normal cinemas within the Coventry area were not able to cope. Coventry Theatre stepped in where the film sold out for a week during July 1974. Remarkably, further demand created a necessity to add a follow on second week at the theatre.

This meticulous restoration delivers stunning image and sound quality, featuring a theatrical and home entertainment mix from Steven Wilson in 5.1 and Dolby Atmos. These upgrades enhance the film's depth and clarity while preserving the authenticity and spirit of the original 1972 release.

Inspired by the golden warmth of Pompeii’s iconic setting, the remaster transforms this timeless piece into a masterpiece of sight and sound.

Watching the enhanced version recently had memories of different times flooding back. The music is still magical. The film is not on the big screen for long. Not to worry it will be readily available for home entertainment set ups. Experience Pink Floyd like never before through this pioneering audio-visual remaster!