Archivists Rhino UK have unearthed a ‘lost’ 1992 documentary on The Smiths which they believe was commissioned for press purposes to support the release of that year’s twin Best Of collections.
After being formed by Morrissey and Johnny Marr in 1982, The Smiths almost immediately began to command a fanbase of a fevered loyalty the like of which few bands can hope to experience.
They instantly stood out as individual from all that had gone before with 1983 debut single ‘Hand In Glove‘ and breakthrough hit ‘This Charming Man‘, whose sharp lyrical content and skillful guitar licks showcased the template which would go on to see The Smiths being recognised as one of the most influential British bands of all time.
Despite Johnny Marr calling time on the band in 1987 at the height of their powers, The Smiths had already proved themselves to be arguably the last truly original UK rock band.
The 17-minute film, which can be seen below, examines the Manchester group’s five-year career and their aforementioned impact on the British music scene.