The iconic concert film, The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus, showcases a remarkable selection of performances captured over two days on December 11-12, 1968. Featuring stellar acts such as The Who, Jethro Tull, Taj Mahal, Marianne Faithfull, and an impromptu supergroup known as The Dirty Mac—which included John Lennon, Keith Richards, Mitch Mitchell, and Eric Clapton—the film also highlights the original lineup of The Rolling Stones, who deliver six of their timeless hits.
Initially shelved, the film remained unreleased until 1996, with restored and expanded editions emerging in 2019. These reissues presented the film in high-quality formats including Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos®, along with a limited Deluxe Edition that marked its debut on Blu-ray, a 2-CD edition, and a vinyl collection featuring three LPs.
In addition to the main performances, the expanded edition reveals bonus material, including three additional tracks by Taj Mahal and previously unreleased recordings of The Dirty Mac rehearsing iconic songs like the Beatles’ “Revolution.” This footage is notably believed to include John Lennon’s first performance before a live audience outside of the Beatles.
Michael Lindsay-Hogg, director of the film—and also known for his work on The Beatles’ 2021 docu-series, Get Back—recalled the creative process, stating that Mick Jagger reached out about a television special, emphasizing that only legendary bands like the Stones or the Beatles could command such a production. The film was shot in a north London television studio, employing a circus theme that added a colorful backdrop to the performances.
The film culminates in The Rolling Stones performing several classics, including “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.” Richards reminisced about the shoot, noting the chaotic excitement and the camaraderie with the audience that included fan club members and contest winners.
After years of being misplaced, the film’s footage nearly faced disposal before being rescued by the band’s road manager, Ian Stewart, who saved the film cans from being discarded. Following Stewart’s death, his wife stumbled upon the cans, leading to the eventual restoration and release of this groundbreaking concert film.
The multi-format package for the Deluxe Edition is complemented by a beautifully bound 44-page book and includes David Dalton’s original essay from 1969, alongside an expanded soundtrack that features a total of 28 tracks, all remixed and restored to high-definition.
With a wealth of additional content, including artist commentary, interviews, and exclusive extras, The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus offers a comprehensive glimpse into a landmark moment in music history and continues to delight fans with its timeless performances.