While the world around it has changed drastically, The Rainbow Bar and Grill has remained one of the last bastions of true rock and roll on Hollywood's famous Sunset Strip. Legendary musicians tell their stories related to the cult club.
Real stories of real people who have been there: Lemmy Kilmister, Gene Simmons, Ozzy Osbourne, Slash, Matt Sorum, Mickey Dolenz, Lita Ford and many more.
Since opening in 1972, Rainbow has served food and drink to successive generations of rockers. Located in West Hollywood between a cluster of music venues, it was popular with bands visiting Los Angeles and those who lived and tried to make it in the City of Angels.
Behind it all was the Malieri family, led by patriarch Mario, who came to Los Angeles from Chicago in the early 1960s to help run another legendary local establishment, Whiskey A Go Go.
Although it had a seating capacity in the hundreds, the Whiskey became one of the most important music clubs in Los Angeles during the 60s and 70s. The Doors, Chicago, Van Halen at various times started there, and many innovative bands have taken their place on this scene.
As Mario's son Michael Maglieri Sr. points out, if Whiskey was the place where bands went to watch each other play, Rainbow was where bands went to hang out with each other.
In a meager 71 minutes of viewing, we're treated to a family drama far more gripping than endless tales of riots, blowjobs, and rock stars too drunk to stand. Music changes, styles change, but for more than 50 years, one rebellious family has left its mark, creating a comfortable space for misfits and superstars alike. Sadly, Mario Maglieri died in 2017 at the age of 93, although his grandson Mikey continues to be involved in both ventures.
The Rainbow [2019, BDRip 1080p]
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