Director Bernard MacMahon on “Becoming Led Zeppelin”

“I like the challenge of the story that’s never been told and the story that looks like it can’t be told.”

Welcome Bernard MacMahon

We’re joined on the Starline by an Irish-British filmmaker. If you’ve love music his Primetime Emmy Nominated “American Epic” series is one to watch. His latest project is the first ever band-authorized documentary of Led Zeppelin. “Becoming Led Zeppelin” had the biggest opening weekend ever for an IMAX Exclusive music release. We welcome director Bernard MacMahon.

You have to visit the Buddy Holly Center!

Bernard, let’s go Beyond the Mic.

How were you able to capture this white whale, a story everyone would want to tell, but has been elusive till today?

What was the biggest challenge with this project that wasn’t trying to find video of the late John Bonham?

The Rockin’ 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which Led Zeppelin song makes you stop and listen every time it plays?

2. What was your first camera?

3. How did the pandemic slow down the film, but allowed it to breathe?

4. Which director influenced you growing up?

5. Favorite classic movie?

6. Which is your favorite performance in the movie?  

7. What’s the best thing about your producing partner Allison McGourty?

8. Favorite film festival?

One Big Question:

What band would you like to tackle for your next project?

The Wrap:

His favorite film festival is Venice, loves Frank Capra and wants you to see “Becoming Led Zeppelin” Bernard MacMahon, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Listen to other Beyond the Mic conversations with directors here.

Find out more about “Becoming Led Zeppelin” here.

About the Film:

Becoming Led Zeppelin explores the origins of this iconic group and their meteoric rise in just one year against all the odds.

Powered by awe-inspiring, psychedelic, never-before-seen footage, performances, and music, Bernard MacMahon’s experiential cinematic odyssey explores Led Zeppelin’s creative, musical, and personal origin story. The film is told in Led Zeppelin’s own words. This the first officially sanctioned film on the group.