Watch Festival Express

Festival Express is a 2003 documentary film that offers an insightful look at the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival of 1970, one of the most iconic events in the history of rock and roll. The film chronicles the journey made by a roster of legendary musicians who traveled across Canada by train to perform at a five-day outdoor music festival in Toronto.

The documentary features behind-the-scenes footage of some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, The Band, and many others, as they ride the train from one destination to the next, jamming and partying along the way. The film is interspersed with interviews with the surviving musicians and concertgoers, offering a unique perspective on the musical and cultural significance of the event.

Festival Express captures the spirit of the summer of 1970, a time of great change and social upheaval. The film shows how music served as a catalyst for social change, providing a unifying force for people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to some dazzling performances by a host of legendary musicians. Janis Joplin is given ample screen time, showcasing her immense talent and raw energy. The Grateful Dead also shines, delivering a series of electrifying performances that capture the freewheeling spirit of the era.

But it is The Band that steals the show, delivering a performance that is widely regarded as one of the greatest in the history of rock and roll. The documentary captures their electric performance of “The Weight”, as well as their iconic rendition of “Don’t Do It”.

Festival Express not only offers a unique perspective on the musical and cultural significance of the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival of 1970, but it also provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the musicians who performed at the event. The documentary shows how they coped with the stresses and demands of the tour, how they interacted with one another, and how they were affected by the sociopolitical climate of the times.

The film also captures the mood of the times, with interviews with youthful concertgoers attesting to the communal spirit of the era. Their interviews offer a glimpse into the counterculture of the times, conveying a sense of the hope, optimism, and idealism that defined the era.

Overall, Festival Express is a highly engaging and entertaining documentary that provides an insight into one of the most significant events in the history of rock and roll. The film showcases the talent and energy of some of the most celebrated musicians of the era, while also offering a unique perspective on the social and cultural significance of the festival. The film is highly recommended for music lovers, history buffs, and anyone interested in the culture of the 1970s.

Festival Express is a 2003 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 85.