British filmmaker Bernard MacMahon anticipated that convincing the remaining members of Led Zeppelin to participate in a documentary about their legendary band would present significant challenges. His intuition proved correct when he expressed his concerns about potentially receiving a negative response to his initial phone call.

?It was incredibly likely that once I put in a phone call, the group might say they were not interested,? MacMahon candidly admitted during a recent conversation with The Guardian. ?There was every chance we would not even get a meeting.? This hesitation stems from Led Zeppelin’s historical reluctance to engage with media representatives and their selective approach to interviews and public appearances.

Over the years following the band’s breakup, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones have remained particularly discerning about whom they choose to communicate with. Thus, when MacMahon landed a face-to-face meeting with Page, he recognized the importance of being thoroughly prepared for any outcome.

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To his surprise, Page arrived at their meeting carrying shopping bags. ?I wondered if he had brought sandwiches,? MacMahon recalled, chuckling as he remembered how he pitched his documentary concept, Becoming Led Zeppelin, using a detailed storyboard. During their conversation, when he reached the part about the first meeting between Page and Plant, the guitarist curiously inquired about which band MacMahon was part of at that time. ?Hobbstweedle,? MacMahon replied, to which Page responded, ?Very good. Carry on.?

As MacMahon demonstrated his extensive knowledge of all things Zeppelin, Page surprised him further by opening the shopping bags to reveal his old diaries from the 1960s. This gesture signified Page?s commitment to the project; however, MacMahon still faced one final evaluation.

Jimmy Page Extends a Unique Invitation to a Historical Location

Just a few days after their initial meeting, Page reached out to MacMahon with an intriguing proposal: ?Would you like to go to Pangbourne with me?? This quaint village holds significant historical value for Led Zeppelin, as Page’s boathouse there served as the band?s very first rehearsal space. Eager to dive deeper into the band’s legacy, MacMahon and his partner, Allison McGourty, gladly accepted the invitation and accompanied Page to this iconic location. ?Later, (Page) revealed it had been a test,? McGourty shared with The Guardian. ??If you had said no to Pangbourne, we wouldn?t have done the film.?? This moment underscored the importance of dedication and enthusiasm in conveying the band?s story.

Ultimately, Page, Plant, and Jones agreed to participate in the documentary, enriching it with their insights and experiences. Additionally, the late drummer John Bonham is featured prominently in the film, thanks to recovered radio interviews. ?He acts as a narrator,? MacMahon explained regarding Bonham’s role. ?His interviews were recorded just after things had happened. Jimmy mentioned that in some ways he?s the star of the film because he?s in the moment.? This unique narrative approach adds depth and authenticity to the documentary.

Becoming Led Zeppelin is set for a wide release on February 14, promising fans an intimate glimpse into the band’s storied past and creative journey.