User Reviews

This is beautifully filmed documentary of the band (We Are ) Augustines. It takes you through the tough and trying times the band had to face . It's Raw , honest and very compelling from start to finish. The emotion you get when listening to Rise Ye Sunken Ships ( their 1st album ) was always there but it multiplies and deepens after watching the triumphs and tragedies from this masterpiece. Whether you are a fan of the band or not , this documentary takes you on a tear shedding journey from " The Avenue " opening to End Credits. It's a must watch .

Where to start...

This film is far more than a music documentary. Yes, it's a documentary and yes, it's about music but there's a plethora of goodness to discover in the story of Billy, Eric and Rob. It's, in places, a hard, emotional watch but by the time the end credits are rolling you'll be left with a euphoric glow along with a growing determination to embrace the things you have, forget the things you don't and do the best you can.

I'm sure you may read this and think "It's only a documentary about a band, what's this guy on?". You see, the thing is, and it's OK if you don't know this yet because you soon will...Augustines weren't just a band, Augustine fans aren't your typical music fans, those songs aren't 'just songs', those gigs weren't just gigs...HELL even the screenings of the film aren't your typical screenings.

Augustines were a special band, there story is a special story and if you care about music, humanity, mental health issues, well being, family, adventures and connections then trust me; you'll watch it and you too will think....

This is more than a music documentary.

Admittedly I'm a huge fan of Augustines, seeing them many times before they went their separate ways. Whilst familiar with the band's backstory, especially the tragedies faced by frontman William McCarthy, the film expertly tells their story. It is a sad but ultimately uplifting story, bringing forward the warmth of the band, and their electric live performances. This film comes highly recommended to any music fans

About 5 years ago my husband told me about a band he'd been listening to and said I needed to see them live to fully understand how amazing they are,he was so right. This film made me so emotional,seeing the struggle behind the scenes is really moving and how they pull themselves together.So much admiration for Billy Mccarthy as he could of chosen a very different path in life. Anyone who wants a gritty documentary this is for you.

A heartbreaking story that tells the journey of one man; starting life from a broken home, battling against everything that life threw at him, his brother and sister. The film tells what is eventually a triumphant story...but the there are a number of stories coming together during the film, that will give you a greater understanding of family, friendship and then an Englishman who binds them together, as battles with drink, drugs, mental health...and finally the music industry take their toll. The story of William McCarthy is told by first time director and former guitarist of The Boxer Rebellion - Todd Howe. Funding the film originally through fans of the band, as a kickstarter project, the film went on to make its premiere at the Sundance film festival 2018 and went on to be crowned - Winner Royal Gem at the Queen Palm IFF 2018. You may have missed the music the first time around but don't miss the film, it might just inspire you to Rise as well!

The story of Augustines is one of perseverance in the face of adversity, and how, with the bond of music and brotherhood, you can rise again no matter what life throws at you. Music documentaries are sometimes limited beyond an easy sell to a fanbase, so in many ways the biggest achievement of Todd Howe's remarkable film is the ease at which it transcends being merely a film by fans, for fans. This is a film for everyone. Singer/songwriter William McCarthy's story is in itself fascinating, and as a focal point for the film, you'd be hard pressed to find many people more charismatic, engaging and honest, but piecing that story together on film, whilst also doing justice to the extraordinary live Augustines experience, is no easy feat. The film balances both expertly. Rise will break your heart and then make it soar. An extraordinary experience and must watch film.

This is two films in one. It's an excellent music documentary, splicing together high-octane footage of Augustines and Pela performances that take you right back to their high-energy, fully-committed, passionate, entertaining live shows. But it's also a brutally raw look at a band whose members have suffered a disproportionately large amount of tragedy at such an early stage of their lives. It's a testament to their dedication, tenacity, strength, drive & passion that they've had the success that they've had and continue to have in the face of such adversity. I can't recommend watching this film enough.

Watching this film can only be described as life affirming. A beautiful and heart wrenching documentary about William McCarthy and the band, sensitively and lovingly produced by Todd Howe. To this day Augustines are the best live band I've ever seen. They have been described as being better live than Hendrix! The documentary captures both the heart and spirit of the band, with some excellent live footage that gives you goosebumps because you were there. Ex frontman William McCarthy is a great musician and storyteller, he has a heart and soul that touches everyone who is lucky enough to meet him. People who are passionate about what they do, and good, really good, should not be exploited and should be able to make a living out of what they love. Musicians like William McCarthy, Eric Sanderson and Rob Allen matter, because music matters. And if you listen to one album today make it Rise Ye Sunken Ships.

This is a story about struggle, hardship and tragedy - but ultimately it is uplifting and a celebration of camaraderie, the human spirit and the spine tingling music that came out of all this.

Whether or not you are a fan of the band or not, you should watch this film.

Three days after watching Rise - The Story of Augustines for the first time, I'm still trying to come to terms with the wave of emotions that this film evokes. Documenting the trials and triumphs of the rock band Augustines and its individual members, Rise grabs you by the collar and shakes you awake from the opening scenes. Emotionally charged, heart-breaking and life-affirming, this offering from Todd Howe and Mike Baum is an honest commentary on the motivations beneath the creative drive of the modern songwriter and the struggle faced by musicians amidst the changing face of the modern music industry. A must for genuine music fans and casual browsers alike.

THE greatest live band I will ever see. From the first minute I saw them back in at the Leeds Cockpit 2012 to the last in Liverpool in 2016 these guys became a passion in my life and will carry on through Todd Howes brilliant documentary. The film epitomises exactly what the band were all about...raw, passionate, approachable and committed to both themselves and those lucky enough to have discovered them. I wish for nothing more than their return one day.

What a Great band. I was lucky to have seen them live twice and devastated they are no more. So seeing this film and William McCarthy live in the cinema tour for me was a great experience. If you are already fan you will surely enjoy it. Unfortunately you would have missed the live Q&A with the producers and williamccarthy himself but still worth watching. Good insight into the struggles of the rise of the band and back life of William and struggles he went through. Such a great front man and vocalist. The film was great and is already on my to buy list. 10 out of 10 from me. All be it a biast fan score.

Magnificent documentary and a truly heartbreaking one too. Listening back to 'Rise All Ye Sunken Ships' feels a lot more poignant and I appreciate that album even more.

Even if you haven't heard of the band I would recommend as it is a momentous tribute to triumph over adversity. Also an incite to the less glamorous aspects of a musicians touring life.

Extra kudos to the director who did a majestic job editing all the footage together.

I may be a little biased as I loved the band but this was a great story told very well.