The stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and the crowd is buzzing with anticipation. But what happens when the concert turns into a catastrophe? This curated list of films explores the thrilling, often terrifying, and sometimes darkly comedic world of concerts that go awry. Whether it's a rock concert, a pop extravaganza, or an intimate gig, these movies capture the essence of how quickly a musical event can spiral into chaos. From technical failures to crowd stampedes, these films offer a unique perspective on the unpredictable nature of live performances, making for an electrifying watch for any music lover or thrill-seeker.

Gimme Shelter (1970)
Description: This documentary captures the Rolling Stones' infamous Altamont Free Concert, which ended in tragedy with the death of a concertgoer.
Fact: The film includes footage of the murder and the band's reaction to the event.


Woodstock (1970)
Description: Documenting the legendary Woodstock festival, this film shows how the event, meant for 50,000, ballooned into a massive, chaotic gathering of over 400,000 people.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The Last Waltz (1978)
Description: While not a disaster in the traditional sense, this documentary captures The Band's final concert, which was filled with technical challenges and emotional farewells.
Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, it features performances by Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and many others.


The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years (1988)
Description: While not a concert disaster, this documentary captures the excesses and chaos of the 1980s metal scene, including backstage antics and onstage meltdowns.
Fact: Features interviews with Ozzy Osbourne, Lemmy, and other metal legends.


Festival Express (2003)
Description: This documentary follows a train tour of rock musicians in Canada in 1970, capturing the chaos and camaraderie among artists like Janis Joplin and The Grateful Dead.
Fact: The film was lost for over 30 years before being rediscovered and released.


The Rocker (2008)
Description: A washed-up rock drummer gets a second chance when he joins his nephew's band, leading to a series of comedic mishaps at their big concert.
Fact: Rainn Wilson, known for "The Office," plays the lead role, bringing his comedic timing to the screen.


The Concert (2009)
Description: This French film tells the story of a former conductor who, after being banned from conducting, seizes the chance to conduct a concert in Paris, leading to a series of hilarious and chaotic events.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events involving the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra.


The Wall (1982)
Description: This surreal film follows a rock star's descent into madness during a concert, blending animation with live-action to depict his inner turmoil.
Fact: The film was directed by Alan Parker, and the screenplay was co-written by Roger Waters.


The Concert for Bangladesh (1972)
Description: This concert film captures the chaos and organization behind George Harrison's benefit concert, which faced numerous logistical challenges.
Fact: The concert was one of the first major benefit concerts, influencing future events like Live Aid.


The Song Remains the Same (1976)
Description: Led Zeppelin's concert film includes fantasy sequences and backstage chaos, showcasing the band's larger-than-life persona.
Fact: The film was shot during the band's 1973 tour at Madison Square Garden.
