AllMovie

Originally released in 1973, The Who's landmark rock album Quadrophenia was instantly hailed as a modern masterpiece and a worthy successor to Tommy and Who's Next. Inspired by something very specific and individualistic - frontman Pete Townshend's memories of "growing up tough," as a mod in the gritty streets of London - it nevertheless retained the same epic feel that characterized the band's prior efforts. The title is a riff on schizophrenia, meant to signify the four conflicting personalities of band members Townshend, Daltrey, Entwistle and Moon. This documentary draws on interviews and other elements for a long, thorough examination of the varied events that led up to and followed the release of the album, including Townshend's vision for the record, Moon's shocking collapse on stage at the outset of the Quadrophenia tour, Quadrophenia's critical reception, and much more.