MUBI

In-depth review of the Criterion Collection edition of this seminal rock-concert film:

Though it seems much farther away in time, 41 years ago on a soft day in June some 200,000 people arrived in Monterey, California, to experience the first and only Monterey International Pop Festival. Organized as a charity event, the festival brought together an eclectic mix of the hottest rock ‘n’ roll and R&B talent, of whom only a small portion would make the final cut of this film.

Festival producers Lou Adler (a music legend who worked with everyone from Sam Cooke to Led Zeppelin) and John Phillips (leader of the Mamas and Papas) were prescient enough to realize that the historical significance of this event demanded a recorded document. They hired documentary filmmaker D.A. Pennebaker (fresh off his success with the Dylan chronicle Don’t Look Back), and secured production money from ABC Television. Yes, Monterrey Pop almost became a made-for-TV movie (more on that in a moment).

Read more:

http://cinemauprising.blogspot.com/2008/12/monterey-pop-at-41-from-criterion.html

Summer of Love.
What a genuinely happy and joyous affair…Altamont or Dylan gone electric this was not. Vividly demonstrates the nobler side of 60’s music, fashion, and ethos preserved in Pennebaker’s usual, and, appropriate for the subject, loose style.

Visually loved the long close-ups on the beautiful faces and fashion of the era. Musically loved the wide ranging styles that amazingly all fit together. (How about the fan reaction to Jimmy’s shock and awe finale. The ladies look downright frightened.)

Thank you D.A. for your 60’s rock docs.

Amazing stuff. I knew about this film of course, but I cant believe I waited so long to see it. Just incredible from start to finish (especially the finish). Every performance is classic. Janis Joplin is awe inspiring. Keith Moon’s manic drumming. Hendrix humping his guitar. Ravi Shankar taking everyone to some other world. Just great. If you see only one 60s music documentary, this is it. Thanks Criterion for putting this out (for free!).