Rocker and activist Bob Geldof recently made headlines at the EnergaCamerimage cinematography film festival, where he not only reflected on his career but also hinted at the possibility of an Imax film about Live Aid, the monumental benefit concert he organized in 1985.
During the festival, Geldof also spoke candidly about his involvement in the 1982 musical film “Pink Floyd-The Wall,” which he introduced alongside his friend, cinematographer and Lifetime Achievement Award honoree Peter Biziou. Geldof admitted that he did not enjoy the experience of making the film, noting that he felt embarrassed by his own performance and ultimately did not like the overall production, which he described as more of an extended music video rather than a traditional film.
Geldof’s pessimistic remarks about “Pink Floyd-The Wall” were balanced by his optimism about the current cinema landscape. He expressed enthusiasm about the increasing availability of concert films, citing the recent “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” as an example. Geldof believes that utilizing cinemas for events like concert films provides a unique and immersive experience for audiences, especially as traditional media outlets continue to evolve and streaming services become more prevalent.
Furthermore, Geldof revealed that there are multiple projects in the works that will continue to bring the story of Live Aid to a wider audience. A potential Imax film about Live Aid is being considered, and Disney is reportedly working on a multi-part series about the concert. Additionally, a musical about Live Aid is set to premiere in London in the near future. Geldof’s disclosure about these upcoming projects suggests that the enduring legacy of Live Aid will continue to be celebrated through various forms of media.
Live Aid, an iconic event described by Geldof as a “global jukebox,” brought together a star-studded lineup of musicians to raise money for famine relief. The concert took place simultaneously at Wembley Stadium in London and John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, featuring performances by legendary artists such as David Bowie, Queen, The Who, Elton John, and Paul McCartney. Looking back on Live Aid, Geldof reminisced about the special moments that unfolded during the event, highlighting the pivotal role it played in propelling the band U2 to greater prominence.
As Geldof’s reflections on Live Aid and “Pink Floyd-The Wall” demonstrate, his influence as a musician and activist continues to resonate within the world of film and entertainment. His candid remarks provide insight into both his personal experiences and the broader cultural impact of these influential projects. Ultimately, Geldof’s appearance at the EnergaCamerimage festival offered a thought-provoking and multifaceted perspective on his career and the enduring legacy of Live Aid.