Less documentary than concert film that shows just how much old guys can still kick ass, Shine a Light is an exhilarating piece of work.  Directed by Martin Scorcese and shot by renowned cinematographer Robert Richardson, the movie depicting the Rolling Stones’ 2006 performance at New York City’s Beacon Theater is a showcase of not just the band’s extraordinary talent, but their seemingly everlasting durability. 

The opening sequence of the movie is a look at the harried preparation for the concert.  Scorcese (racked with nerves and seeming oddly like Woody Allen) haggles with Stones leadman Mick Jagger over the ever-changing song list while the singer gripes about the placement of lights and cameras.  And then the music starts and the film kicks into high gear.  Some classic Stones selections are present here – “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Shattered,” “Some Girls,” “Tumbling Dice,” “Sympathy for the Devil,” and of course, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”  The songs are arresting, and the band’s vigor elevates them to an even greater level.  Christina Aguilera, Jack White and Buddy Guy all make cameos for guest vocals on a trio of numbers, but the show belongs to the Rolling Stones’ frontman. 

Mick Jagger himself is more of a force than a vocalist.  A whirlwind of swaying hips, flapping lips and limitless energy, he rivals performers a quarter of his age as he belts out lyrics guaranteed to rouse the spirit.  Jagger has never been known for being shy or introverted and Shine a Light provides an illuminating look into to why this artist has catapulted the Rolling Stones into earning the label of the greatest Rock ‘n Roll band of all time.  Keith Richards rocks it on guitar, more taciturn than Jagger, but his presence is no less potent.

The concert itself is intercut with old footage (documentary interviews and candid moments) from the band in their early days, contrasting their past looks, attitudes and playing styles with the present.  The decision to make the movie this way is brilliant.  Not only does it keep the film from being a straight-up concert movie, it also provides deep perspective into its members, giving us character insight along with the music. 

The DVDs extras are a few additional songs (“Undercover of the Night,” “Paint it Black,” “Little T&A,” and “I’m Free”) and a fifteen minute featurette, which feels mostly like a compilation of unused vintage footage of the Stones interspliced with some shots of Scorcese and the band in preparation for the big show. 

Shine a Light was released in IMAX and is best suited for high-def, big screens with surround sound, but that’s not to say it can’t be enjoyed in smaller mediums.  Because at the end of the day, great music is great music, no matter what the system is it’s being played on.