Taylor Swift triumphed on her groundbreaking Eras Tour which spans 10 albums and 17 years of music. According to Forbes, the 56-city tour has grossed $780 million so far. And the concert experience continues with Swift releasing a concert film in theaters on October 13th. But is the film experience a 13/13?
Swift filmed the concert on the first three nights of her Los Angeles shows. However, because of the SAG-AFTRA strike, Swift communicated with the union to ensure that she could release the film while meeting the guidelines set by SAG-AFTRA. After receiving special approval, she announced the film on August 31st. So far, the concert film has grossed $128 million, and that’s just on opening weekend.
The film premiered at The Grove in Los Angeles on Wednesday, October 11th, with many celebrities, including Beyoncé, as well as top fans attending. The next day, early showings began for the film at many theaters, with the film being officially released on October 13th.
One part of the film experience that excited many Swifties was the special Eras Tour popcorn buckets and drink cups sold at theaters. The cost of these often was less than other movie special items, being only a few dollars more than the regular buckets or cups.
The film itself features great visuals that imitate the actual concert experience. The audio even shows Swift’s powerful vocal skills, giving viewers a truly immersive experience.
Something that could upset fans is how five songs originally in the concert were cut for the film. Excluded songs include fan favorites such as The Archer, No Body No Crime, Long Live, Cardigan, and Wildest Dreams.
Before the film’s release, many fans debated online whether they should stand up and sing during the film, or quietly watch while sitting. Opening weekend proves that both options occur in theaters. In my theater, about half the crowd danced and sang along, and the other half enjoyed from their seats. The film has been an opportunity for fans to enjoy the concert in both ways.
Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour concert film was a great way for fans to experience the Eras tour for the first time or to relive the concert. It was wonderfully filmed, showing off Swift’s talent and the amazing stage visuals and production. I definitely give it a 13/13.