Freddie Mercury

In 2011, following the success of the ‘Queen: Days of Our Lives’, director Rhys Thomas was approached by Jim Beach with the idea of making a documentary about the 'Barcelona’ album, then nearing its 25th anniversary. 

Originally, the documentary was conceived solely around that anniversary. Thomas, however, felt there was a bigger story to tell — the story of Freddie’s life outside Queen, as an individual and a solo artist, the ups and downs, professionally and personally. He was keen to let Freddie tell his own story, using the unseen, funny and honest David Wigg interview as a narrative spine. Though much of the story was well known to fans, the team searched for unseen footage, transferring promo rushes, concert footage and interviews and in doing so uncovered material that had never been seen before.

Thomas recalled: “It was a labour of love for me and my proudest achievement. A dream come true to make it. Myself and the editor Christopher Bird could not wait to come too work each day to spend time with Freddie, which was what it felt like. We also upset a lot of people in the other edit suites playing the songs way too loud.” 

The film was well rewarded, winning an Emmy and a Rose d’Or for 'Best Arts Documentary' as well as outstanding reviews.