Shihad: Beautiful Machine documents the journey of four Kiwi teenagers, determined, talented musicians, who aspired to be the world’s best rock band.
The film chronicles Shihad’s bumpy ride from their beginnings in Wellington’s punk metal scene through their crazy era in Berlin, to the bad timing of their ambitious journey to conquer the intimidating American music industry. Fame, hostility, alcohol, drugs and tragedy all feature in their two-decade journey in search of greatness.
On the verge of international success on the US stage the 9/11 tragedy interrupted plans. A name which sounded too close to ‘jihad’ didn’t look good. A name change to ‘Pacifier’ shattered many loyal fans. The band gained the fame they desired, not by their music but by what many fans considered a sell-out to political sensitivities.
A key part of this feature length music documentary is the exploration of life off stage. We meet the parents, wives and girlfriends who had a direct influence on the path of the band. This access behind the scenes also delves into the turbulent relationships among the band members themselves.
Writer and director, award-winning short-film maker Sam Peacocke, makes his feature debut with Shihad: Beautiful Machine. Formerly a director of some of Shihad’s music videos, Peacocke was able to draw on his own bond with the band to build an authentic tale.
Described by the film’s creators as “…a human drama that explores the meaning of loyalty, desire, friendship, loss, success and purpose” the story also examines artistic merit versus commercial success.
Shot in various locations around the world, starring John Toogood, Tom Larkin, Phil Knight and Karl Kippenberger, Shihad: Beautiful Machine asks what went wrong?
A deep, revealing and candid story.
Shihad: Beautiful Machine
Raglan Old School Arts Centre in Stewart St,.
Friday July 20 at 8.00pm and Saturday July 21 at 4.30pm.
Reserves Ph 825 0023 or Email info@raglanartscentre.co.nz