planktonrules

The "VH-1: Behind the Music" story of the career of Weird Al Yankovic is very unusual for two big reasons. First, unlike many, Al was not a 'has-been' when they made the documentary. I am NOT saying this to be mean...but many of the stars featured on the show were at the end or nearing the end of their careers...whereas Al wasn't. Second, there are not the usual rock star issues...affairs, drugs, alcohol, etc. Are all sadly missing! In fact, he's a vegetarian!

Overall, this is an excellent look at Weird Al and his career. However, because he's still performing, his peak came AFTER this documentary was made. Because of this, it could use an updated documentary.

By the way, for a BETTER (though completely insane) version of his life, try watching "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story"....you'll thank me for it.

In their day, Styx was among the most popular groups in the world...with four consecutive triple-platinum albums! However, despite their tremendous success, the band was a screwed up mess...and the show focuses a lot on this schism in the band that eventually led to its lead singer, Dennis DeYoung to leave...leaving a band that traveled as Styx...but without its lead and the guy who wrote most of their hits. Essentially, the main thrust of the show is how DeYoung wanted to lead the band in a theatrical direction...even though the public wanted the louder, older version of Styx. It also was a band who had a member drink himself to death AND lawsuits! Again...it's not a healthy band. How they dealt with all this and the band's future are what makes it interesting.

Well worth seeing and interesting...particularly if you loved their music like I have. It's also rather depressing at times. Pretty typical for a "VH-1: Behind the Music" episode.