In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50

dir. Toby Amies, UK, 2022, 86 min

Prog rock legends King Crimson have seen over 20 members come and go throughout their 50-year history, with bandleader and guitar virtuoso Robert Fripp remaining the one constant. Known for his impeccable style and uncompromising perfectionism, Fripp commands fierce loyalty from fans and a mixture of awe and intimidation from his fellow musicians.

Director Toby Amies spent three years documenting the band, capturing their unique sonic chemistry through in-depth interviews with past collaborators, former members, and new recruits who grew up idolizing the very band they’ve now joined. As Fripp himself notes, “This is the first King Crimson lineup without at least one member who openly resents my presence.”