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About Immediate Family
If you listen to 1970s pop music, you’ve undoubtedly heard these guys play, but do you know their names? This documentary highlights five talented men-Danny, Leland, Rus, Waddy, and Steve- who shunned the spotlight for themselves yet enjoyed decades of success as session musicians on iconic tracks. Interviewees include their collaborators James Taylor, Don Henley, Lyle Lovett, Jackson Browne, Phil Collins, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, Keith Richards, Steve Jordan, and dozens more who take us behind the scenes on the songs that shaped an era.
- Year
- 2022
- Genres
- Documentary, Musical, Music
- Runtime
- 102mins
- Director
- Denny Tedesco
- Top cast
- Jason Isaacs, Marisa Tomei, Tommy Lee Jones, Eve Hewson, Joaquin Cosio
Immediate Family trailer
Play video: Immediate Family trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Immediate Family is a compelling documentary that shines a well-deserved spotlight on the unsung heroes of the music industry. Directed by Denny Tedesco, the film chronicles the lives of five session musicians who played pivotal roles in creating some of the most memorable songs of the 1970s. The narrative is enriched by interviews with notable artists like James Taylor and Stevie Nicks, who share personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of these musicians. The film is not just a historical account; it captures the emotional resonance of the music they helped create, making it relatable to viewers of all ages. While it could have delved deeper into the personal struggles of the musicians, it still effectively conveys the joy and passion behind their craft. Overall, Immediate Family is a must-see for anyone who appreciates music history and the collaborative spirit of artistry.
Editor Team
★★★★★5/5
Immediate Family is a heartfelt and nostalgic journey through the world of session musicians, and it hits all the right notes. This documentary is like a warm hug for anyone who loves music. Denny Tedesco does a fantastic job of weaving together interviews with legends and the stories of these talented musicians who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. The anecdotes shared by their famous collaborators are not only entertaining but also reveal the profound impact these artists had on the soundtracks of our lives. The film captures the essence of camaraderie and creativity in the music industry, reminding us that the true artists are sometimes those you’ve never heard of. It’s a celebration of talent, passion, and friendship, making it an essential watch for music lovers. I walked away feeling a deep appreciation for the often-overlooked figures in the music world. Don’t miss it!
How viewers describe this
- heartwarming
- insightful
- nostalgic
- engaging
- celebratory
- emotional
- important
- reflective
- entertaining
- impactful
- educational
- touching
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 16 | ||
| 02 | 60 | ||
| 03 | 236 | ||
| 04 | 351 | ||
| 05 | 524 | ||
| 06 | 539 |
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Got a question about Immediate Family?
Is Immediate Family worth watching?
Immediate Family is definitely worth watching, especially for music enthusiasts. This documentary provides a fascinating look into the lives of five talented session musicians whose contributions to the music industry have often gone unrecognised. With insights from renowned artists, the film captures the essence of the 1970s music scene and highlights the importance of these musicians in shaping iconic tracks.
What is Immediate Family really about?
Immediate Family is a documentary that focuses on the lives of five session musicians-Danny, Leland, Rus, Waddy, and Steve-who played pivotal roles in creating the sound of 1970s pop music. The film features interviews with famous collaborators, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how these musicians contributed to timeless hits while remaining largely in the shadows.
Is Immediate Family suitable for children?
Immediate Family is generally suitable for older children and teenagers. The documentary contains no explicit content, but it does feature discussions about the music industry and personal anecdotes that may resonate more with an adult audience. Parents might consider watching it first to gauge its appropriateness for younger viewers.
What happens at the end of Immediate Family?
At the end of Immediate Family, viewers are left with a sense of appreciation for the often-overlooked contributions of session musicians. The film concludes with reflections from the featured musicians and their collaborators, reinforcing the idea that while they may not be household names, their impact on the music industry is profound and lasting. Spoiler alert: there are no dramatic plot twists, but rather a heartfelt celebration of their legacy.
Is there a sequel to Immediate Family?
As of now, there is no sequel to Immediate Family. The documentary stands alone as a tribute to the talented session musicians of the 1970s. However, given the film's positive reception, there may be potential for further explorations of other influential musicians or related stories in the future.
What films are similar to Immediate Family?
If you enjoyed Immediate Family, you might also appreciate documentaries like 20 Feet from Stardom, which highlights the lives of backup singers, or Sound City, which explores the history of a famous recording studio. Both films delve into the behind-the-scenes aspects of music and celebrate the contributions of often unsung heroes.
What is the cultural significance of Immediate Family?
Immediate Family holds cultural significance as it sheds light on the crucial role session musicians played in shaping the sound of popular music in the 1970s. By highlighting their contributions, the documentary not only educates viewers about these artists but also celebrates the collaborative nature of music creation, often overshadowed by star performers.
How has Immediate Family been received critically?
Immediate Family has been well-received by critics and audiences alike, praised for its engaging storytelling and heartfelt interviews. Reviewers have noted its ability to shine a light on the often-ignored figures in the music industry, making it a must-watch for fans of music history and documentary filmmaking.

