It’s 1984. Synthesizers wail, shoulder pads loom large, and a supergroup of British and Irish musicians assembles to record a song destined to become a Christmas staple – and a lightning rod for debate. Forty years on, BBC Four offers a peek behind the curtain with “The Making of Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, a documentary promising 75 minutes of never-before-seen footage from that iconic recording session.
This isn’t just a clip show; it’s a time capsule. The grainy footage captures the energy, the egos, and the earnest intentions of a moment that transcended music. Viewers get a front-row seat to witness the creative process, the collaborations, and perhaps even some of the now-cringeworthy fashion choices of the era. While the single’s impact and legacy have been dissected endlessly, this documentary aims to show, not just tell, the story of how it all came together.
For those who remember the original, it’s a nostalgic trip back to a pivotal pop culture moment. For younger viewers, it’s a chance to understand the context of a song that continues to be played every December. Whether you consider “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” a holiday classic or a relic of a bygone era, this documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into its creation. The 75 minute film is edited by Richard Potts and produced by Jill S Sinclair.
“The Making of Do They Know It’s Christmas?” airs on BBC Four, Friday, November 29, 2024, at 9:00 PM
