Frank Zappa, Tony Palmer

The Profile

Frank Zappa (1940–1993) was an American composer, guitarist, bandleader and producer known for experimental rock and satirical lyrics. Tony Palmer (born 1941) is a British film director and writer known for music documentaries and films about musicians. The two collaborated on the 1971 film 200 Motels.

Zappa and Palmer collaborated on the film 200 Motels (1971). The production involved the London Symphony Orchestra and mixed filmed material with music; Tony Palmer assisted with editing the video-origin material for transfer to 35mm, according to the provided review.

The review praises the film's music and some visual experimentation but faults its chaotic production, weak script and amateur acting. Recommended mainly for experimental-cinema scholars and committed Zappa fans. Tony Palmer is credited with rescue editing; the London Symphony Orchestra performance is a notable element.