Billy Joel - A Matter of Trust: The Bridge to Russia (1987 Video) User Reviews

Billy Joel never dies...

[marsoullis · 9/10 · 21 September 2005]

This is one of the best "rock'n'roller" documentaries I've watched, if only to watch Billy Joel, not only on stage, but touring the U.S.S.R. in 1987. He's more than just a tough-looking New Yorker who jams on the piano -- this show brings out his love for his family and for the people whom he entertains. He is seen in many settings, between walking around Red Square meeting people, paying homage to significant Russian musical artists of this century, spending time with this unique people and culture, answering questions they have about America and the rock'n'roll genres taking place there, and visiting sites with his ex, Christie, and their daughter Alexa Ray. He wears no mask like so many artists these days do -- he doesn't pretentiously try to hide the person he is. Of all things, "A Matter of Trust" also contains easily the most entertaining clips of him performing in front of large audiences I've ever seen. Between "Only the Good Die Young", "A Matter of Trust", "The Longest Time" a capella, him solo on the guitar singing Bob Dylan's "The Times They Are A' Changin'", him tipping over a large electric piano during "Sometimes A Fantasy", and just jamming out alone with his band the fantastic "New York State of Mind", the man never stops short in displaying the greatest performance ever seen. This is a must-see for all fans of the Piano Man, and for all lovers of good rock'n'roll in general.

Joel Fans, Do Yourself a Favor and Watch This

[josephcondon · 9/10 · 6 March 2024]

I'm baffled at any online reviews that are downgrading this film due to there not being "enough music". First off, that was not the point of the documentary at all. Heck, read the description and you can gather that. That being said, there still is a ton of music in this one. This documentary mostly focuses on the time Billy Joel and his family (Christy Brinkley and daughter Alexa) spent in Russia, at a time when it was sort of frowned upon. The documentary provides a lot of insight into the time and it's really quite inspiring to see what he accomplished while over. In the end, it was about so much more than the music; but the music was the ultimate vessel. If you are a fan of Billy Joel or even remotely respect his work, I highly recommend giving this one a view. You won't be disappointed.

10 Minutes of Music and an 65 minutes of boredom

[arfdawg-1 · 1/10 · 6 October 2019]

Hands down, this must be the worst concert video i have ever seen.

Next to no music.

Just yapping and yapping endlessly.

It's horrible.