The lavish spending continues, though this time it`s off the pitch, not on it as Manchester City bankroll the heavily anticipated release of the docu-film ‘Blue Moon Rising.` The documentary follows the club`s first season under Sheikh Mansour; showing the dramatic highs and lows of arguably the club`s best season since 1976. It combines incredible footage from last season`s integral games with behind-the-scenes information and interviews.
However, the film is centred around five fanatical City fans; showcasing their personal stories that come with following Manchester City morning, noon and night. The lads all come from Stockport and travel up and down Britain to watch the Blues in ‘Helios` a battered, 1992 Renault Espace. In one season they experience all emotions known to man on their MCFC journey, ranging from utter ecstasy after the 2-1 victory over United at Eastlands in Carling Cup semi-final, to complete sickness after the Spurs defeat which was impossible to take.
The documentary also reveals what goes on behind-the-scenes at the club with extremely frank stories told by Khaldoon Al Mubarak and Garry Cook; who talks about his hellish time at Manchester City before the heralded arrival of Sheikh Mansour. Speaking about the corrupted end of Thaksin`s reign as owner, he explains: “We couldn`t pay the wages. There was no way out.”
Also included are interviews with the likes of Adebayor, Bellamy and Tevez who express exactly how they feel about their role at the club with their passion really coming through. Bellamy in particular shows his passion and desire when he is captured before the Spurs game motivating his team-mates: “It all comes down to this. There will be nowhere to hide tonight.” Interestingly, the film was shot using ‘RED` camera technology which allowed the inclusion of the breathtaking footage of some of the key games in our season.
Blue Moon Rising also includes insightful commentary from Noel Gallagher who talks about his long-standing love for the club and from Bernard Halford who explains the rollercoaster ride he has endured during his 50 year stint at Manchester City. The clubs previous achievements are again reflected on with more individual, personal experiences shared by the fans.
In my opinion, Sugg and London captured the essence of being a Manchester City supporter superbly, they could not have opted for a better bunch of fans than the lads featured. In one season they experienced all emotions known to man on their journey, ranging from utter ecstasy after the 2-1 victory over United at Eastlands in Carling Cup semi-final, to complete sickness after the Spurs defeat – that was impossible to take.
However, despite being a film about Manchester City, I think any genuine football fan can relate to the freakish rollercoaster ride that is supporting your beloved side. It really is a must see for any Blue. Brilliant.
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