Queensrÿche: Video Mindcrime (1989 Video) User Reviews

The Most Awesome Rock Opera Ever

[victoriaacunningham · 10/10 · 1 November 2006]

Although technically not an Opera, (as there are speaking parts) this was by far the best rock story since Tommy. The music is inspiring, the lyrics tell a great story and it should be made into a full length film. The story is twisted and really makes you think about society as a whole. The characters are all in themselves compelling and draw you in, weather you want them to or not. It is very easy to relate to any of them. Just the fact that you know this has or could go on somewhere is disturbing. The drugs used as a mind control and the things they do to to Nikki are sick. From the moment I saw it I wanted it. Now I'm on the search for a DVD copy. It would make my top ten of "Scarry Movies" and would be put in rotation.

You guys are great. I cannot wait for the next installment.

Operation:Mindcrime then and now

[poohkie752000-170-719406 · 14 October 2011]

By far, this is one of the absolute best concept albums ever written. I first procured this on VHS back in 1994, about 5 years after seeing the track "Eyes of a Stranger" on Headbanger's Ball. Been hooked ever since! Through the lyrics of this narrative, you learn all about Nikki and his ensnarement in a conspiracy to take down "the man" (spoiler alert). However, he never considered along the way what his actions would entail, and exactly who would be put in his path. Operation:Mindcrime in actuality is a precursor to what is going on right now. Highly relevant and worth the watch and listen. Though dark and brooding, the mindset of the protagonist is one who is looking for a way out of his situation. As the saying goes, be careful what you wish for! The twists and turns of the music is just begging to be turned into a feature length film, but until then, you'll just have to catch Queensryche performing it in its entirety in concert or look for the DVD. I highly suggest that you watch this with an open mind; you never know what you might learn from it.