MR

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainmen ... -1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

Okay, I see what she did there.

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Some reviews have pointed out that there is a bit of a bait and switch going on by naming the film the way they did. Of course, the director probably realized that "Don't Stop Believin': Arnel Pineda's Journey" might not attract as many folk.
This does seemed to have caused a bit of confusion, with many writers questioning why there isn't more of the band's story in the film, hence a lot of luke warm reviews..

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

See my post above. Diaz's choice to go with that title and not include Arnel's name even in the small print has caused a bit of confusion in reviewer circles and some lower scores because the film doesn't appear to be what people thought it would be about.

When you see this poster, what else are you going to think the movie's about beyond a story about the band Journey?

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

its a misleading thought that the band themselves promoted along with pineda from the beginning of his tenure with them. and it's annoying

MCC620 wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

its a misleading thought that the band themselves promoted along with pineda from the beginning of his tenure with them. and it's annoying

I don't think the band really believed the film would be quite as one sided, judging by the way Neal skipped out on the Q&A session during one of the screenings because of it after complaining about the lack of back story for the band.

Unless you are a follower of the band, Diaz pulled the wool over a few people's eyes by naming the film how she did.
Middle of the road reviews from film critics mentioning "fan-doc", "infomercial", "a little too enamored with her subject and less than objective" are critiques pointed directly at her.

Well, we've seen it for what it really is. Hopefully Diaz will recoup her expense and make a little. I don't think there was clear intent to pull a wool over anyone's eyes. If there was it would seem the band would have shut it down before it saw the light of day. What we may be seeing are unintended consequences.

steveo777 wrote:Well, we've seen it for what it really is. Hopefully Diaz will recoup her expense and make a little. I don't think there was clear intent to pull a wool over anyone's eyes. If there was it would seem the band would have shut it down before it saw the light of day. What we may be seeing are unintended consequences.

As most reviewers have said, diehard Journey fans will enjoy and are probably more in tune to what the film is supposed to be about. Films like this aren't going to make money, especially with licensing needing to be paid. I think in the end, it became more about getting the film out the door just so Diaz could finally move on to another project. Spending five years on a film that won't make money, that's got to be something that will take the wind out of you.

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:Well, we've seen it for what it really is. Hopefully Diaz will recoup her expense and make a little. I don't think there was clear intent to pull a wool over anyone's eyes. If there was it would seem the band would have shut it down before it saw the light of day. What we may be seeing are unintended consequences.

As most reviewers have said, diehard Journey fans will enjoy and are probably more in tune to what the film is supposed to be about. Films like this aren't going to make money, especially with licensing needing to be paid. I think in the end, it became more about getting the film out the door just so Diaz could finally move on to another project. Spending five years on a film that won't make money, that's got to be something that will take the wind out of you.

...the cash too

slucero wrote:

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:Well, we've seen it for what it really is. Hopefully Diaz will recoup her expense and make a little. I don't think there was clear intent to pull a wool over anyone's eyes. If there was it would seem the band would have shut it down before it saw the light of day. What we may be seeing are unintended consequences.

As most reviewers have said, diehard Journey fans will enjoy and are probably more in tune to what the film is supposed to be about. Films like this aren't going to make money, especially with licensing needing to be paid. I think in the end, it became more about getting the film out the door just so Diaz could finally move on to another project. Spending five years on a film that won't make money, that's got to be something that will take the wind out of you.

...the cash too

From the interviews I read, I think the film crew ended up spending 2 million dollars out of their own pocket to get the film to the screen. Diaz said she had no problem funding her first three movies and thought that with this one, because of the subject matter the money would be there. She says that never happened and they ended up getting loans, borrowing from family & friends and running up credit cards to finally finish it.

Don wrote:

slucero wrote:

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:Well, we've seen it for what it really is. Hopefully Diaz will recoup her expense and make a little. I don't think there was clear intent to pull a wool over anyone's eyes. If there was it would seem the band would have shut it down before it saw the light of day. What we may be seeing are unintended consequences.

As most reviewers have said, diehard Journey fans will enjoy and are probably more in tune to what the film is supposed to be about. Films like this aren't going to make money, especially with licensing needing to be paid. I think in the end, it became more about getting the film out the door just so Diaz could finally move on to another project. Spending five years on a film that won't make money, that's got to be something that will take the wind out of you.

...the cash too

From the interviews I read, I think the film crew ended up spending 2 million dollars out of their own pocket to get the film to the screen. Diaz said she had no problem funding her first three movies and thought that with this one, because of the subject matter the money would be there. She says that never happened and they ended up getting loans, borrowing from family & friends and running up credit cards to finally finish it.

Fortunately she lives here and we have a thing called bankruptcy. If the water gets too deep she may need to file. Sometimes you can put your heart and soul into everything, believing in your project, and still have it fail to produce the required return on investment. This is not a jab at all. This kind of thing happens to business people every day. I know her heart was in this and her intentions were genuine. I just don't see it, from an accounting point of view, ever writing black ink to the books.

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

JRNYMAN wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

Steve, I think you have made some great points. Anyone who could finance such a venture would have to have very deep pockets. We're talking a Speilberg or Lucas here. I doubt anyone of those would have interest in tackling it, but making the kind of movie you are talking about would require a shit load of money! No novice or shoestring operator will be able to get the job done. I'm sure there are people out there that could finance this, but they would need vision and an intense interest in Journey to make it payoff, first emotionally, then financially. The experience of watching the film would have to be bigger than life and evoke uncharted emotion from every potential butt in the seat watching it. I can see that!

Anyway, I have a much larger, unwavering respect for Arnel after watching the movie. He stands pretty tall in my book! The insight into his life has been great. None of us ever understand how someone feels until we have lived in their skin, which we don't get to do, but that was pretty damn close.

By the way, thanks for all the news today, Don-Tater!

I had to take a break. I'm working on how to break the DRM from the iTunes rental to make a permanent HD copy of the film. I haven't watched the film because I don't want to start the 24 hour viewing clock until I know I can break the protection.
Amazon is one place that is showing a September date for the actual film to be purchased instead of rented so it may be awhile off before a DVD comes out. An HD digital copy would be superior to a DVD anyway.

It's hard work (well, not really. Just time consuming).

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:By the way, thanks for all the news today, Don-Tater!

I had to take a break. I'm working on how to break the DRM from the iTunes rental to make a permanent HD copy of the film. I haven't watched the film because I don't want to start the 24 hour viewing clock until I know I can break the protection.
Amazon is one place that is showing a September date for the actual film to be purchased instead of rented so it may be awhile off before a DVD comes out. An HD digital copy would be superior to a DVD anyway.

Keep us posted. Thanks man!

BTW, make a good DVD of BTM, then tie this to it and were golden. We should have most of it memorialized on a disc.

steveo777 wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

Steve, I think you have made some great points. Anyone who could finance such a venture would have to have very deep pockets. We're talking a Speilberg or Lucas here. I doubt anyone of those would have interest in tackling it, but making the kind of movie you are talking about would require a shit load of money! No novice or shoestring operator will be able to get the job done. I'm sure there are people out there that could finance this, but they would need vision and an intense interest in Journey to make it payoff, first emotionally, then financially. The experience of watching the film would have to be bigger than life and evoke uncharted emotion from every potential butt in the seat watching it. I can see that!

Anyway, I have a much larger, unwavering respect for Arnel after watching the movie. He stands pretty tall in my book! The insight into his life has been great. None of us ever understand how someone feels until we have lived in their skin, which we don't get to do, but that was pretty damn close.

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

slucero wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

Steve, I think you have made some great points. Anyone who could finance such a venture would have to have very deep pockets. We're talking a Speilberg or Lucas here. I doubt anyone of those would have interest in tackling it, but making the kind of movie you are talking about would require a shit load of money! No novice or shoestring operator will be able to get the job done. I'm sure there are people out there that could finance this, but they would need vision and an intense interest in Journey to make it payoff, first emotionally, then financially. The experience of watching the film would have to be bigger than life and evoke uncharted emotion from every potential butt in the seat watching it. I can see that!

Anyway, I have a much larger, unwavering respect for Arnel after watching the movie. He stands pretty tall in my book! The insight into his life has been great. None of us ever understand how someone feels until we have lived in their skin, which we don't get to do, but that was pretty damn close.

The NDA muzzles would have to come off of Augeri and Soto too. Svante Pettersson should be interviewed also.

In other words, ain't never gonna happen.

steveo777 wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

Steve, I think you have made some great points. Anyone who could finance such a venture would have to have very deep pockets. We're talking a Speilberg or Lucas here. I doubt anyone of those would have interest in tackling it, but making the kind of movie you are talking about would require a shit load of money! No novice or shoestring operator will be able to get the job done. I'm sure there are people out there that could finance this, but they would need vision and an intense interest in Journey to make it payoff, first emotionally, then financially. The experience of watching the film would have to be bigger than life and evoke uncharted emotion from every potential butt in the seat watching it. I can see that!

Anyway, I have a much larger, unwavering respect for Arnel after watching the movie. He stands pretty tall in my book! The insight into his life has been great. None of us ever understand how someone feels until we have lived in their skin, which we don't get to do, but that was pretty damn close.

Oh snap! I should have been clearer with my post. The kind of biography I'm talking about is a book not a movie. But, after reading your post Stevie, it got me thinking about what an epic thing it a full length film would be!! And you're right, it would cost waaaaaaaaaaaaaay more money than anyone associated with the band would or could ever consider. But just for shits and giggles, let's say someone did fund such a project. Can you imagine how ridiculously long the film would have to be to really tell their story - their entire story?! I mean, don't get me wrong, there are lots of us here who would gladly sit through a 3 hr. docu which chronicled their entire story but it would be a long one nonetheless.

Don wrote:I had to take a break. I'm working on how to break the DRM from the iTunes rental to make a permanent HD copy of the film. I haven't watched the film because I don't want to start the 24 hour viewing clock until I know I can break the protection.
Amazon is one place that is showing a September date for the actual film to be purchased instead of rented so it may be awhile off before a DVD comes out. An HD digital copy would be superior to a DVD anyway.

The WalMart VUDU download is 48 hrs. Also, regarding breaking the DRM etc., etc.... Check your PM's.

...and it was far more focused on the band than I expected. I expected 75% of it to be tear-jerker stuff, but was totally pleased it was probably split exactly the opposite. It was more about how someone in this situation adapts to taking on the job. I honestly felt the disadvantages Pineda came from were minimized to some extent. There are some great moments - and I think this was a fitting take on the band and what Pineda's success means to his countrymen. It really was a Journey song brought to life, with Arnel representing the city boy taking the midnight train to anywhere.

slucero wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

MCC620 wrote:

Don wrote:http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/movie-reviews-don-stop-believin-everyman-journey-electrick-children-article-1.1282143

Elizabeth Weitzman
Thursday, March 7, 2013, 1:49 PM

Proof that dreams really do come true — but also that they rarely match our fantasies — Ramona Diaz’s compelling documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of Arnel Pineda.

A once-homeless Filipino musician who had no particular prospects, Pineda happens to sound eerily like former Journey front man Steve Perry. When the band planned to reunite without Perry, they discovered Pineda doing covers on YouTube, and dropped him right into their lead singer slot.

The movie tracks his path from impoverished unknown to charismatic rock star, offering a fascinating look at a process that usually goes unrecorded. (One highlight: when Pineda bumps into the guy who replaced Chicago’s Peter Cetera.)

There is, however, a huge, Steve Perry-shaped hole at the film’s core. Diaz seems so intent on emphasizing the positive that she tiptoes around the ugly conflicts that led to his departure — and thus Pineda’s eventual arrival. Given the movie’s repetitive padding, it feels as if she hasn’t fully done her job. Though Perry probably wanted nothing to do with her project, his participation might have pushed this glimpse at the band’s evolution into a genuine revelation.

again roughly 10 years of band history disappears into the abyss

Not a docu centered on Journey. I can see how many people wanted to be, however. I think that someday a well written documentary covering all of the band's years and players up to present might be a good idea, but it might be a hard sell. We sort of got that with BTM.

While I agree a well-written docu is def a good idea, it can't be someday. It needs to be sooner than later - way sooner. As soon as the band has been retired for 5 years, the interest level and recognition is going to drop big time (...I just picked 5 years as a round number.)
What I find hard to believe is no official biography of the band has ever been done (to completion). If and when that ever does happen, I feel sorry for the individuals tasked with collecting and researching nearly 40 years of history, events, performances, interviews, appearances, side projects... you get the idea. A complete, no-subject-off-limits bio of Journey would be received well I think due to:
A. None have been done like it.
B. Name recognition will play a huge part in its success because of the large demographic their music appeals to.
C. If it's truly the kind of bio I described allowing the author(s) full access to present and past members who candidly and honestly tell their story, the Perry portion will drive sales through the stratosphere.

I just finished watching it and I came away impressed and perhaps even a bit enlightened. People can say what they want about Arnel - and they have, loudly and clearly - but i have to hand it to him... he stepped into some monstrous shoes and into a "big circus" as Jon put it. Any singer who got the gig would have been dissected and scrutinized. Arnel is very Internet savvy and spends lots of time online so he was aware of everything that was being said about him and persevered - even when he was sick and turned in some pretty impressive performances.

Steve, I think you have made some great points. Anyone who could finance such a venture would have to have very deep pockets. We're talking a Speilberg or Lucas here. I doubt anyone of those would have interest in tackling it, but making the kind of movie you are talking about would require a shit load of money! No novice or shoestring operator will be able to get the job done. I'm sure there are people out there that could finance this, but they would need vision and an intense interest in Journey to make it payoff, first emotionally, then financially. The experience of watching the film would have to be bigger than life and evoke uncharted emotion from every potential butt in the seat watching it. I can see that!

Anyway, I have a much larger, unwavering respect for Arnel after watching the movie. He stands pretty tall in my book! The insight into his life has been great. None of us ever understand how someone feels until we have lived in their skin, which we don't get to do, but that was pretty damn close.

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

No, I'm not forgetting anything. Like I stated in the fantasy scenario I described above, all past and present members would tell their entire story of their time with the band - including Perry. Now, do I believe that that kind of no-holds-barred access and permission is ever going to be granted - especially for the purposes of publishing it? C'mon, I may be dumb....

My point is simply that a complete bio on this band really should be done to chronicle the life of the living, breathing organism Journey is and how it was they were able to continue to exist lo these 35-40 years. You hear the phrase "living the dream" and in most cases it refers to somebody who is living life on their terms due to them becoming a larger-than-life rock star. For most, it lasts a very, very short time and BAM! they're back to mixing paint at Home Depot or folding shirts and jeans at The Gap. These guys got to do it longer than other people's entire careers in fields they went to college to work in. That fact puts them in a class which includes only a select few individuals and IMHO warrants an unabridged, honest, detailed history. So if you ever make it to Phoenix and you want to look me up, just ask for Blue Boy... I'll be the one holding my breath!

JRNYMAN wrote:

slucero wrote:

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

No, I'm not forgetting anything. Like I stated in the fantasy scenario I described above, all past and present members would tell their entire story of their time with the band - including Perry. Now, do I believe that that kind of no-holds-barred access and permission is ever going to be granted - especially for the purposes of publishing it? C'mon, I may be dumb....

My point is simply that a complete bio on this band really should be done to chronicle the life of the living, breathing organism Journey is and how it was they were able to continue to exist lo these 35-40 years. You hear the phrase "living the dream" and in most cases it refers to somebody who is living life on their terms due to them becoming a larger-than-life rock star. For most, it lasts a very, very short time and BAM! they're back to mixing paint at Home Depot or folding shirts and jeans at The Gap. These guys got to do it longer than other people's entire careers in fields they went to college to work in. That fact puts them in a class which includes only a select few individuals and IMHO warrants an unabridged, honest, detailed history. So if you ever make it to Phoenix and you want to look me up, just ask for Blue Boy... I'll be the one holding my breath!

That's not what I meant.. but I think we agree..

Perry has always had "yay/nay" rights over what Journey material was published and post breakup, what all the others can say.. it's why nothing in the vast Journey vaults gets monetized. It always has to pass Perry scrutiny, and he is never gonna give that up. It would be stupid of him to give up the single lever he has to control the legacy of Journey.


"fantasy scenario" is totally accurate...

slucero wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

slucero wrote:

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

No, I'm not forgetting anything. Like I stated in the fantasy scenario I described above, all past and present members would tell their entire story of their time with the band - including Perry. Now, do I believe that that kind of no-holds-barred access and permission is ever going to be granted - especially for the purposes of publishing it? C'mon, I may be dumb....

My point is simply that a complete bio on this band really should be done to chronicle the life of the living, breathing organism Journey is and how it was they were able to continue to exist lo these 35-40 years. You hear the phrase "living the dream" and in most cases it refers to somebody who is living life on their terms due to them becoming a larger-than-life rock star. For most, it lasts a very, very short time and BAM! they're back to mixing paint at Home Depot or folding shirts and jeans at The Gap. These guys got to do it longer than other people's entire careers in fields they went to college to work in. That fact puts them in a class which includes only a select few individuals and IMHO warrants an unabridged, honest, detailed history. So if you ever make it to Phoenix and you want to look me up, just ask for Blue Boy... I'll be the one holding my breath!

That's not what I meant.. but I think we agree..

Perry has always had "yay/nay" rights over what Journey material was published and post breakup, what all the others can say.. it's why nothing in the vast Journey vaults gets monetized. It always has to pass Perry scrutiny, and he is never gonna give that up. It would be stupid of him to give up the single lever he has to control the legacy of Journey.


"fantasy scenario" is totally accurate...

Sure about the part where the beak has to sign off on everything? You potentially have 4 voting members and the majority should rule, ie., if Neal, Jon and Ross say yeah....Perry says no, they should have veto power. They're the ones who are still busting their asses out there working. That seems only right!
Wouldn't Perry having ultimate power like that be kind of like a dictator?

steveo777 wrote:

slucero wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

slucero wrote:

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

No, I'm not forgetting anything. Like I stated in the fantasy scenario I described above, all past and present members would tell their entire story of their time with the band - including Perry. Now, do I believe that that kind of no-holds-barred access and permission is ever going to be granted - especially for the purposes of publishing it? C'mon, I may be dumb....

My point is simply that a complete bio on this band really should be done to chronicle the life of the living, breathing organism Journey is and how it was they were able to continue to exist lo these 35-40 years. You hear the phrase "living the dream" and in most cases it refers to somebody who is living life on their terms due to them becoming a larger-than-life rock star. For most, it lasts a very, very short time and BAM! they're back to mixing paint at Home Depot or folding shirts and jeans at The Gap. These guys got to do it longer than other people's entire careers in fields they went to college to work in. That fact puts them in a class which includes only a select few individuals and IMHO warrants an unabridged, honest, detailed history. So if you ever make it to Phoenix and you want to look me up, just ask for Blue Boy... I'll be the one holding my breath!

That's not what I meant.. but I think we agree..

Perry has always had "yay/nay" rights over what Journey material was published and post breakup, what all the others can say.. it's why nothing in the vast Journey vaults gets monetized. It always has to pass Perry scrutiny, and he is never gonna give that up. It would be stupid of him to give up the single lever he has to control the legacy of Journey.


"fantasy scenario" is totally accurate...

Sure about the part where the beak has to sign off on everything? You potentially have 4 voting members and the majority should rule, ie., if Neal, Jon and Ross say yeah....Perry says no, they should have veto power. They're the ones who are still busting their asses out there working. That seems only right!
Wouldn't Perry having ultimate power like that be kind of like a dictator?

Depending on exactly what is being looked at it doesn't work that way. Like Kevin Shirley said two years ago, Perry has a say in everything from the Sony/BMG era. The funny thing is, when SP left in 1998, the catalog wasn't even worth half of what it is today. The other members should have bought him out then. Since they didn't, this is what they get.
Even if Perry dies that won't change as copyright from 1978 forward lasts for 70 years after death and can be transferred to another party, ie. his daughter who will retain the same rights regarding granting/ denial.
There are quite a few bands and even record labels who have bought out their artists. I don't know how well the rest of the Journey guys took care of their money prior to 1998 but a buyout would probably have been the best option, providing Perry would have accepted it. As it is, he is a voting member for life.

It's not like a dictatorship because Jon and Neal have the same power. They could have probably stopped the Greatest Hits 2 from coming out if they wanted to.

Now, with Wal-Mart killing off the Manila DVD and looking to dump their Eclipse inventory, I don't imagine Jon or Neal saying no to anything that Sony wants to do with, especially with Nomota's one exclusive retailer cutting them off at the knees with their newer material.

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:Sure about the part where the beak has to sign off on everything? You potentially have 4 voting members and the majority should rule, ie., if Neal, Jon and Ross say yeah....Perry says no, they should have veto power. They're the ones who are still busting their asses out there working. That seems only right!
Wouldn't Perry having ultimate power like that be kind of like a dictator?

Depending on exactly what is being looked at it doesn't work that way. Like Kevin Shirley said two years ago, Perry has a say in everything from the Sony/BMG era. The funny thing is, when SP left in 1998, the catalog wasn't even worth half of what it is today. The other members should have bought him out then. Since they didn't, this is what they get.
Even if Perry dies that won't change as copyright from 1978 forward lasts for 70 years after death and can be transferred to another party, ie. his daughter who will retain the same rights regarding granting/ denial.
There are quite a few bands and even record labels who have bought out their artists. I don't know how well the rest of the Journey guys took care of their money prior to 1998 but a buyout would probably have been the best option, providing Perry would have accepted it. As it is, he is a voting member for life.

It's not like a dictatorship because Jon and Neal have the same power. They could have probably stopped the Greatest Hits 2 from coming out if they wanted to.

Now, with Wal-Mart killing off the Manila DVD and looking to dump their Eclipse inventory, I don't imagine Jon or Neal saying no to anything that Sony wants to do with, especially with Nomota's one exclusive retailer cutting them off at the knees with their newer material.

BING-fucking-GO

slucero wrote:

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:Sure about the part where the beak has to sign off on everything? You potentially have 4 voting members and the majority should rule, ie., if Neal, Jon and Ross say yeah....Perry says no, they should have veto power. They're the ones who are still busting their asses out there working. That seems only right!
Wouldn't Perry having ultimate power like that be kind of like a dictator?

Depending on exactly what is being looked at it doesn't work that way. Like Kevin Shirley said two years ago, Perry has a say in everything from the Sony/BMG era. The funny thing is, when SP left in 1998, the catalog wasn't even worth half of what it is today. The other members should have bought him out then. Since they didn't, this is what they get.
Even if Perry dies that won't change as copyright from 1978 forward lasts for 70 years after death and can be transferred to another party, ie. his daughter who will retain the same rights regarding granting/ denial.
There are quite a few bands and even record labels who have bought out their artists. I don't know how well the rest of the Journey guys took care of their money prior to 1998 but a buyout would probably have been the best option, providing Perry would have accepted it. As it is, he is a voting member for life.

It's not like a dictatorship because Jon and Neal have the same power. They could have probably stopped the Greatest Hits 2 from coming out if they wanted to.

Now, with Wal-Mart killing off the Manila DVD and looking to dump their Eclipse inventory, I don't imagine Jon or Neal saying no to anything that Sony wants to do with, especially with Nomota's one exclusive retailer cutting them off at the knees with their newer material.

BING-fucking-GO

+1

Don wrote:

steveo777 wrote:

slucero wrote:

JRNYMAN wrote:

slucero wrote:

you guys keep forgetting that all of this has to be cleared by BeakZilla and his lawyers...

No, I'm not forgetting anything. Like I stated in the fantasy scenario I described above, all past and present members would tell their entire story of their time with the band - including Perry. Now, do I believe that that kind of no-holds-barred access and permission is ever going to be granted - especially for the purposes of publishing it? C'mon, I may be dumb....

My point is simply that a complete bio on this band really should be done to chronicle the life of the living, breathing organism Journey is and how it was they were able to continue to exist lo these 35-40 years. You hear the phrase "living the dream" and in most cases it refers to somebody who is living life on their terms due to them becoming a larger-than-life rock star. For most, it lasts a very, very short time and BAM! they're back to mixing paint at Home Depot or folding shirts and jeans at The Gap. These guys got to do it longer than other people's entire careers in fields they went to college to work in. That fact puts them in a class which includes only a select few individuals and IMHO warrants an unabridged, honest, detailed history. So if you ever make it to Phoenix and you want to look me up, just ask for Blue Boy... I'll be the one holding my breath!

That's not what I meant.. but I think we agree..

Perry has always had "yay/nay" rights over what Journey material was published and post breakup, what all the others can say.. it's why nothing in the vast Journey vaults gets monetized. It always has to pass Perry scrutiny, and he is never gonna give that up. It would be stupid of him to give up the single lever he has to control the legacy of Journey.


"fantasy scenario" is totally accurate...

Sure about the part where the beak has to sign off on everything? You potentially have 4 voting members and the majority should rule, ie., if Neal, Jon and Ross say yeah....Perry says no, they should have veto power. They're the ones who are still busting their asses out there working. That seems only right!
Wouldn't Perry having ultimate power like that be kind of like a dictator?

Depending on exactly what is being looked at it doesn't work that way. Like Kevin Shirley said two years ago, Perry has a say in everything from the Sony/BMG era. The funny thing is, when SP left in 1998, the catalog wasn't even worth half of what it is today. The other members should have bought him out then. Since they didn't, this is what they get.
Even if Perry dies that won't change as copyright from 1978 forward lasts for 70 years after death and can be transferred to another party, ie. his daughter who will retain the same rights regarding granting/ denial.
There are quite a few bands and even record labels who have bought out their artists. I don't know how well the rest of the Journey guys took care of their money prior to 1998 but a buyout would probably have been the best option, providing Perry would have accepted it. As it is, he is a voting member for life.

It's not like a dictatorship because Jon and Neal have the same power. They could have probably stopped the Greatest Hits 2 from coming out if they wanted to.

Now, with Wal-Mart killing off the Manila DVD and looking to dump their Eclipse inventory, I don't imagine Jon or Neal saying no to anything that Sony wants to do with, especially with Nomota's one exclusive retailer cutting them off at the knees with their newer material.

Help me out here for a second because now I'm confused..... (although it doesn't take an awful lot to do that...)
It was my understanding that Perry had yay/nay voting rights for the 10 years following his official exit from the band after-which he was no longer paid tour revenues, gave up exclusivity rights to their catalog - which is why the re-records were able to be re-recorded and released on an album, etc. Why then does he have supreme veto power over decisions like the one we're now discussing? And also, how long are the NDA's in effect? For life? Surely there has to be some sort of clause that lifts them in the event of his death, no?