Watch American Commune

American Commune is a documentary film from 2013 that explores the story of The Good Earth Commune, a group of like-minded individuals who attempted to build a utopian society during the 1970s in rural Tennessee. Directed by sisters Rena Mundo Croshere and Nadine Mundo, the film chronicles the rise and fall of this experimental community through the eyes of those who lived there.

The film begins with a brief history of the commune and the social and political climate of the time. The founders of The Good Earth Commune were Marilyn and Peter Warshall, who were inspired by the counterculture movement of the 1960s and sought to create a community based on principles of communal living, self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability. They believed that by living in harmony with the earth and each other, they could create a better world.

The documentary features interviews with Marilyn and Peter, as well as with many of the former members of the commune. Through their stories, we learn about the challenges and successes of communal living. We see how the group built their own homes, grew their own food, and created a close-knit community. We also see how they struggled with interpersonal conflicts, financial difficulties, and isolation from the outside world.

One of the most powerful aspects of American Commune is the way it captures the spirit of the time. The 1970s were a time of great social change, and the commune was just one of many experiments in alternative living. The film features footage of protests, music festivals, and other cultural events that were an important part of the era. It also includes interviews with experts on the counterculture movement, who provide context for the events of the film.

The documentary also explores the legacy of The Good Earth Commune. Many of the former members went on to lead successful lives outside of the commune, but they all credit their time there with shaping who they are today. The film shows how the experience of communal living changed them, and how they continue to carry its lessons with them in their personal and professional lives.

Overall, American Commune is a fascinating and deeply moving film that captures a unique moment in American history. Through its honest portrayal of The Good Earth Commune and its members, it offers a glimpse into a world that was full of hope, but ultimately proved to be unsustainable. Despite its flaws, however, the commune remains a powerful symbol of the human desire for connection and community, and the film does an excellent job of conveying this message.

American Commune is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.