The film was primarily the work of American fan Jeff Stein who, despite having no previous experience in filmmaking, convinced the band to support the project and served as the film's director. Stein had produced a book of photographs from the band's 1971 tour when he was just 17. In 1975, he approached Pete Townshend, the Who's principal composer and lead guitarist, about compiling a collection of film clips to provide a historical reference for the band's fans. Townshend initially rejected the idea, but was persuaded by the group's manager, Bill Curbishley, to give their cooperation. Townshend was also encouraged at Stein's suggestion that the film could "do the touring" for the band, at a time when the guitarist was having doubts regarding life on the road.