Single Video Theory is a music documentary directed byMark Pellington that follows the making ofYield, the fifth album by the Americanalternative rock bandPearl Jam. It was released first onVHS on August 4, 1998, and then onDVD on November 24, 1998.
The film was shot in 16mm film over three days in November 1997 in downtownSeattle. It features interviews with the band members and behind-the-scenes footage of the band's rehearsal sessions for its shows opening forThe Rolling Stones. The term "single video theory" is a play on the "single-bullet theory," involving theassassination of John F. Kennedy.
The documentary illustrates how the band began to widen the songwriting responsibilities of its members, with bassistJeff Ament credited with writing "Pilate" and "Low Light", and guitaristMike McCready taking part in writing "Given to Fly" with vocalistEddie Vedder. It was the first insight into the band's inner workings of its recording sessions, which had previously been shielded from the public.AllMusic gave it three out of a possible five stars. Allmusic staff writer Perry Seibert said, "The intimate musical performances will interest any fan of the band."[1]Single Video Theory has been certified platinum by theRIAA.[2]
