Legendary folk musician Pete Seeger shares stories and songs with some of the folk and country music greats of the 1960s such as Johnny Cash, June Carter, Mississippi John Hurt, The Stanley Brothers and Doc Watson.
ReMastered: The Lion's Share is a documentary that delves into the mystery behind the iconic hit song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' and explores the injustice faced by the South African songwriter who never received proper credit or compensation for his contribution. Through interviews and historical footage, the film reveals the hidden truths and the impact of copyright issues in the music industry.
Tribute to Harry Chapin (1991) is a documentary that delves into the life and music of Harry Chapin, a legendary folk-singing artist known for his heartfelt storytelling. Through interviews, archival footage, and performances, this film captures the essence of Chapin's impact on the music industry and his dedication to social activism. It explores his journey from a struggling musician to a beloved figure whose songs continue to resonate with audiences.
At the risk of a 5-year prison term, Francesco Da Vinci struggles with his Virginia draft board to be recognized as a sincere conscientious objector to the Vietnam war.
A man named Arlo gets caught up in the anti-establishment movement of the 1960s and faces discrimination, military draft, and various misadventures while hitchhiking, attending a wedding, and getting involved with a small-town commune.
Explore the censorship challenges faced by the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour during the cultural revolution of the 1960s.
Gasland is a documentary film that investigates the environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, in the United States. The film showcases the detrimental effects of contaminated water, toxic chemicals, and corporate greed on the environment and public health.
Chords of Fame is a documentary film that takes a look at the life and music of a folk singer during the 1960s. The film includes reenactments, interviews, and performances, providing a comprehensive portrait of the musician and the era.
When a young couple buys a contested home at auction from the U.S. government for $5,400, they become involved in a political and moral battle much larger than what they originally bargained for.
A documentary about the life and career of folk singer and activist Pete Seeger, highlighting his contributions to the music industry and his political activism.
“If there’s hope for the human race, there’s hope for the Hudson.” —Pete Seeger In the summer of 1969, legendary folk singer Pete Seeger launched the Clearwater, a 19th-century-style sloop with a singing crew of musicians and activists. His intention was to raise awareness of pollution in the Hudson River and to petition legislation that addressed the then-burgeoning climate crisis. Over 50 years later, the Clearwater remains an interactive environmental classroom—or, in its builder’s words, “a carnival, museum, and showboat all wrapped into one.” Featuring rare interviews with Seeger himself, Down by the Riverside is a beautiful, stirring tribute to the communities of people who continue to restore and preserve this elegant symbol of the Hudson Valley. As a local story of local heroism, this documentary is an inspiring reminder of all that can be accomplished when ordinary people work on behalf of their history and environment. —Ben Rendich
The Weavers: Wasn't That a Time is a documentary that tells the story of the folk music group The Weavers and their journey through the challenging times of the blacklist era. The film explores their rise to fame, their activism, and the impact of the blacklist on their career. It also delves into their personal lives, showcasing their resilience and commitment to the power of music.
A look into those convicted by the House Un-American Activities Committee
A Sigh and a Wish tells the story of pioneer folklorist Helen Creighton and of the enduring appeal of her remarkable collections of song and story. Creighton helped define Maritime culture as we know it. Thanks to her, folk songs moved out of the kitchens and the fishing boats and into the mainstream. Top contemporary Maritime musicians - talents like Mary Jane Lamond and Lennie Gallant - describe how deeply they have been influenced by Creighton. For 60 years, Creighton sought out ghost stories, superstitions and tales of buried treasure, as well as songs handed down from generation to generation: fishing songs, work songs, love songs. Timeless songs. A Sigh and a Wish is a moving tribute to the genius of a self-taught folklorist and to the continuing strength of the deep oral traditions she helped preserve. But it also raises important questions. Does Creighton's collection truly reflect Maritime culture, or is it tinged by her own upper-middle-class assumptions?
Big Bill Broonzy would inspire a generation of musicians, yet he was not the man they believed him to be. This first, very intimate, biography of the pioneering bluesman uncovers the mystery of who Broonzy really was and follows his remarkable and colorful journey from the racist Deep South to the clubs of Chicago and all across the world. With contributions from Pete Seeger, Ray Davies, Keith Richards, Martin Carthy, John Renbourn, and members of the Broonzy family. Broonzy's own words are read by Clarke Peters.
Chronicles the 50-year career of singer/songwriter Jean Ritchie, from Viper, Kentucky to the New York stage. Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, and her family and friends in Eastern Kentucky are among those interviewed. A 1996 KET production.
Festival is a documentary film that takes viewers back to the 1960s, immersing them in the experience of a music festival. It explores the performances, interviews, and philosophy behind the festival, showcasing the folk music, blues, and bluegrass that defined the era.
The Banjo Project is a cross-media cultural odyssey: a major television documentary, a live stage/multi-media performance, and a website that chronicle the journey of America’s quintessential instrument—the banjo—from its African roots to the 21st century. It’s a collaboration between Emmy-winning writer-producer Marc Fields and banjo virtuoso Tony Trischka (the Project’s Music Director), one of the most acclaimed acoustic musicians of his generation.
A tribute concert honoring the life of legendary folksinger Phil Ochs recorded at the Madison Square Garden's Felt Forum in 1976.
Isn't This a Time! A Tribute Concert for Harold Leventhal is a documentary film that celebrates the life and work of Harold Leventhal, a legendary music promoter and manager. The film captures the essence of the tribute concert held in his honor, featuring performances by renowned artists who were influenced by his talent and dedication. Through interviews, archival footage, and live performances, the film showcases the impact Leventhal had on the music industry and his lasting legacy.