It’s been almost 40 years since the rock group KISS made their first appearance on the movie screen (KISS meets the Phantom or Attack of the Phantoms back in 1979). Fast forward to 2016 and the latest movie “KISS Rocks Las Vegas” shows the current incarnation in all their glory. The film, which was about an hour and 45 minutes in length, showcased the band’s residency in Las Vegas over a 2 week stretch in November of 2014.
Even though the band played 9 shows over their stay they only shot on November 22nd and 23rd. Using various steady cams, regular cameras and drones, yes ladies and gentleman drones were used to get that 360 degree angle from behind the stage and also used when vocalist and rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley took atop of the scaffold for “Love Gun” and “Black Diamond.” That in itself made the viewing a little different from what you normally see in concert videos.
The first 14 minutes of the film started by showing various interviews with each band member. They each discussed their respective experiences of doing the residency. Vocalist and bassist Gene Simmons talked about how he was taken aback by all the little kids in the audience wearing the makeup and singing along to the songs. Drummer Eric Singer always fantasized about playing in Vegas in a show band and said that this was a dream come true for him. He also talked about how the drums were set up with LED lighting inside for a real Vegas style of glitz.
Guitarist Tommy Thayer talked about how he was asked to be the Post Production Supervisor. Thayer has a lot of experience editing and producing KISS videos in the past including the KISSology series and the 2004 “Rock the Nation” release. Unfortunately, the latter had quick edits which caused a lot of fans to be annoyed or turned off by the ever so changing focal points. A better job was done here and Thayer used all the technology that was at his disposal to make it a more realistic experience. The sound quality was also top notch.
The 17 song set will be made available for pay per view (minus the interview footage) in the month of June. Check your local listings.
