This new DVD offers a look at the rise and ultimate fate of one of Britain’s most successful bands, but is not authorized by Queen or the estate of their lead vocalist, the late Freddie Mercury. Instead of using exclusive interviews with surviving members – guitarist Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor and bassist John Deacon – the documentary relies on alternate methods to tell Queen’s story.

Rare photos, concert footage and old interviews with Mercury are interspersed with commentary from music journalists (Malcolm Dome, Jerry Ewing, John Robb and Mick Wall), Mercury tribute artists (Steve Littlewood and Joseph Lee Jackson), DJ Paul Burnett and broadcaster/friend of Mercury Paul Gambaccini.

The film focuses on Mercury, from his childhood in India and Zanzibar to his late teens in London and eventual development into one of music’s most recognizable icons. After short stints in a few local bands, Mercury joined May and Taylor to form Queen in 1970.

This was a time referred to as the “era of experimentation” in several of the DVD’s commentaries. Queen, and Mercury in particular, took this notion to the extreme in their costumes, offstage activities and most notably, their music.

The group enjoyed mild success with its first two albums and while touring with bands like Mott the Hoople and Thin Lizzy, but really captured the attention of the world with Sheer Heart Attack in 1974 and A Night at the Opera a year later. The release of 1977’s News of the World cemented Queen’s place in music history, while their performance at 1985’s Live Aid reminded the world of what an amazing show they would always put on.

Under Review takes a look at Mercury’s solo projects as well, but the main attraction of this DVD is the live performance clips which show Mercury as one of the most electrifying personalities to grace the stage.

Extras: “The Hardest Freddie Mercury Quiz in the World Ever” interactive game and contributor bios.

Grade: B

Under Review 1980-1991 – The Freddie Mercury Story is currently available.