In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50 (Toby Amies, 2022, UK)

In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50 (2022) is an excellent document exploring the history of the legendary progressive rock group King Crimson - entirely the brainchild of English musician Robert Fripp. King Crimson certainly has one of the more interesting histories of any rock band. The band exploded on the scene in 1969 with the legendary album In the Court of the Crimson King, catapulting them to worldwide fame. Internal tensions quickly dissolved that iteration of the band, with Fripp leading the charge to continue the project. Throughout the 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond, Fripp assembled a rotating group of players to fulfill his vision for the band.

While this reviewer’s personal favorite iteration of the band is the Adrian Belew-fronted 80s variant (originally intended to be a different project under the name “Discipline”), it is hard to overstate the legacy and influence of the band. This documentary, directed by Toby Amies, is less interested in the influence and music of the band, and more interested in the internal dynamics of the band and the nature of their live performances - which had become a ritual in and of themselves by the time of this film. Band is less appropriate - the touring show of King Crimson is more like an orchestra, with Fripp being the exacting conductor.

Throughout the film, past collaborators - including Belew and drummer Bill Bruford - are interviewed. Most moving are the interviews with Bill Rieflin (perhaps best known outside of Crimson for his work with industrial rock group Ministry), who died of cancer during the filming of the documentary. Interviews with fans are also a highlight. While there is another great documentary to be made about the history of King Crimson, In the Court… is certainly the best documentary on Robert Fripp and his role within the band.

8/10