In a brilliant display of technical mastery, "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" stands out as an electrifying experience, encapsulating the grandeur and closeness of the pop star’s jam-packed shows.
Sam Wrench, the director, employs cameras that seem omnipresent, capturing Swift's dynamic performance across her extensive musical repertoire. The lenses follow her every move across the expansive SoFi Stadium stage, illuminated in sync with different eras of her career. They soar, offering aerial views of a sea of fans, their mobile lights twinkling like ecstatic starlight. Yet, they also zoom in, catching subtle nuances of Swift's expressions, notably during powerful moments like her extended performance of "All Too Well." Through adept editing, Wrench fuses scenes from three distinct nights in Inglewood, California, immersing viewers in the euphoria and simultaneously offering a panoramic spectacle.
What remains constant, irrespective of the era, is Swift's unique prowess in forging an emotional resonance, both through her music and her interactions with the audience. Her stage presence is remarkable - a testament to her dedication and exuberance - yet beneath the surface, there's an unwavering sincerity. This authenticity is palpable as she transitions through her albums, from the spirited newcomer singing "Our Song" to the formidable force behind “Anti-Hero” in her latest, “Midnights.” She embodies both the endearing geek and the fierce femme fatale, masterfully making every attendee feel like a confidant and kindred spirit. This duality, balancing relatability with her meteoric fame, is Swift's hallmark, ever-present throughout her performances.
The tour features an array of hits, from the perpetual tunes like “Shake It Off” and “Bad Blood” to spirited tracks like “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” and “I Knew You Were Trouble.” However, the film also indulges viewers in the poignant lyricism of the “folklore” and “evermore” chapters. Her rendition of “champagne problems” beside a verdant piano, a collaboration with former beau Joe Alwyn, is strikingly emotional, matched by the acoustic “betty” set within a quaint “folklore” cabin. Beyond her status as a style symbol and role model, it’s her profound narrative skill that defines Swift, and the movie smartly foregrounds this talent. (Though the absence of songs like “cardigan” and her performance with HAIM is noted, one recognizes the impossibility of showcasing everything.)
An intriguing aspect of this multi-camera approach - remarkably executed without a single camera intrusion - is how it highlights minutiae. It’s delightful to observe, for instance, how Swift’s microphones aesthetically adapt to each era. Viewers can also admire the meticulous artistry of her wardrobe, from glittering Versace ensembles and Christian Louboutin footwear to the elegant Alberta Ferretti attire for her “folklore” segment. Such intimacy is unattainable even for those who attended the concerts in person.
Every detail underscores Swift’s commitment to this colossal project, and the cinematic vibrancy is undeniable. While a 165-minute runtime might seem daunting for anyone other than ardent Swifties - and admittedly, it feels overwhelming towards the conclusion - the film, as a piece of cinema, is captivating. So, adorn yourself with some friendship bands and give in to this spectacular journey.
