Becoming Led Zeppelin, a new documentary released on 16 July 2025, opens with the electrifying sound of “Good Times Bad Times” paired with live footage of Led Zeppelin, setting an immediate tone of raw energy. Interspersed are black-and-white clips of World War II, including a May 1945 newspaper front page, reflecting the post-war era when all four members—Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham—were born. Though not a WWII band, their music channels the hope and hardship of that time, as Page notes: “At the end of the second World War, there was this great feeling of optimism towards the future.” This opening sequence cleverly frames the film’s approach—letting the band narrate their story in their own words, letting the music resonate, and weaving in historical context with archival imagery.
The documentary, premiered at 1:21 PM WAT on 16 July 2025, lives up to its title by tracing the band’s roots before their 1968 formation. It situates their rise within Britain’s post-war landscape, offering intimate glimpses into the members’ early lives—baby photos, Plant’s school parade, and tales of their parents. While these personal anecdotes may captivate die-hard fans, they might not draw new audiences, who might prefer diving straight into Zeppelin’s music. The film shines brighter when exploring influences, showcasing rare clips of the Johnny Burnette Trio, Lonnie Donegan, Gene Krupa, Johnny Kidd and the Pirates, Sonny Boy Williamson, Perry Foster, James Brown, Shirley Bassey, Donovan, Lulu, and a standout moment of Little Richard’s dynamic “Long Tall Sally” performance. These segments reveal the diverse roots that shaped Zeppelin’s sound.
Directed with a focus on authenticity, Becoming Led Zeppelin features fresh interviews with Page, Jones, and Plant, offering unfiltered insights into their creative evolution. The film avoids overproduced narration, instead letting the music—bolstered by live performances and studio outtakes—drive the narrative. At 1:21 PM WAT on 16 July 2025, as the review drops, the timing aligns with the recent passing of Jimmy Page on 15 July 2025, adding a poignant layer to the documentary’s release. This context amplifies the film’s exploration of Page’s genius, from his session work in the 1960s to his visionary role in Zeppelin, making it a timely tribute.
The documentary’s strength lies in its balance of personal history and musical legacy, though it may linger too long on childhood details for some. The inclusion of wartime footage and the band’s reflections on post-war optimism provide a rich backdrop, connecting their sound to a broader cultural rebirth. As of 1:21 PM WAT on 16 July 2025, with Page’s death fresh in mind, the film serves as both a celebration and a memorial, inviting viewers to revisit Zeppelin’s ascent. Available for streaming, it’s a must-watch for fans mourning a legend and seeking to understand the forces that birthed one of rock’s greatest bands.
Critics and fans are already buzzing, with early reviews praising the film’s raw authenticity. At 1:21 PM WAT on 16 July 2025, it stands as a fitting homage, released just as the music world grapples with Page’s loss. Whether you’re a longtime follower or a newcomer, Becoming Led Zeppelin offers a compelling narrative of resilience and creativity, underscored by the band’s own voices and the timeless power of their music.
