Hard Rock Treasures

Imagine Antiques Road Show for rock music addicts and you'll have an idea what the enjoyable documentary Hard Rock Treasures is all about. Don Bernstine, head of collections for the Hard Rock Cafe chain, conducts extensive searches for the most eclectic and unusual rock music memorabilia to display at Hard Rock locations. Beginning with a single Eric Clapton guitar, the collection grew into an extraordinary assortment of instruments, stage costumes, and original handwritten lyrics from the titans of the rock world. Here, viewers will see Bernstine visiting with legends such as Jimmy Page, Brian Wilson, Peter Frampton, and the members of Kiss, although the most entertaining interview is with the late Darrell “Dimebag” Abbott and his brother Vinnie Paul. Interspersed between the interviews is rare newsreel footage, including a look at the Beatles opening their ill-fated Apple Boutique in London (the first attempt to seriously mix rock and commerce). While music lovers will enjoy the surplus of star power, the most fascinating aspect of this film is the rare glimpse afforded viewers into the guts of the Hard Rock operations, from the storage center for all of the memorabilia to the planning of which items are displayed in the company's various cafes, hotels, and casinos. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (P. Hall)