Pretenders Documentary Premieres in Toronto, Highlighting Hynde's Reluctant Participation
Joss Crowley’s documentary 'Pretenders' premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival, chronicling the band’s rise from 1980 to the early 1980s. The film features rare archive footage and audio-only interviews with Chrissie Hynde, who agreed to participate to ensure historical accuracy after unauthorized projects emerged. Hynde, who remains camera-shy, appears on screen only for a final interview, while the film also honors late guitarist James Honeyman-Scott through the recollections of former tour manager Stan Tippins.
Key points
- The documentary 'Pretenders' premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival, directed by Joss Crowley.
- Chrissie Hynde agreed to participate after an unauthorized documentary was produced, ensuring the official record was accurate.
- The film focuses on the band’s first five years, including the 1980 debut album and the deaths of band members in 1981-1982.
- Rare, restored footage from cameraman Andy Watt and diaries read by tour manager Stan Tippins provide key historical context.
- Hynde appears on camera only for a final interview, preferring audio-only interviews to maintain her privacy and avoid the 'rock goddess' label.
Background
The Pretenders released their acclaimed debut album in January 1980, achieving significant success before facing internal turmoil and the deaths of members Pete Farndon and James Honeyman-Scott in the early 1980s. Chrissie Hynde has long resisted the 'rock goddess' label, preferring to be seen as an ordinary musician. Previous attempts to document the band’s history were unauthorized, prompting Hynde to engage with Crowley to control the narrative.
Why it matters
The documentary provides a definitive, authorized account of The Pretenders' early years, preserving the legacy of James Honeyman-Scott and offering a rare, unfiltered look at Chrissie Hynde's perspective. It highlights the importance of artist control in music documentaries and the value of restored archival materials in historical music narratives.
What to watch
The documentary will continue its festival run following the Toronto premiere. Hynde and drummer Martin Chambers are expected to attend the premiere, though Hynde has indicated she may not watch the final cut. The film aims to reach a wider audience, potentially influencing future music documentary standards regarding artist consent and archival restoration.
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