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Festival is a music documentary film from 1967 that features some of the most renowned folk musicians of the time, including Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and Pete Seeger. The film documents the Newport Folk Festival of 1963 to 1966, which was a key event in the folk music scene and played a significant role in spreading its popularity. The film was directed by Murray Lerner and produced by Alan Lomax.

The film captures the essence of the folk music movement in the 1960s, which was characterized by a sense of social consciousness and political activism. The performances of artists like Joan Baez and Pete Seeger reflect the deeply held beliefs of the generation that was coming of age at that time.

The film is divided into three parts, with each part showcasing different artists and their performances. The first part includes performances by Joan Baez, Odetta, and Mississippi John Hurt, among others. Baez's performance of "We Shall Overcome" is a highlight of this section, and her powerful vocals and emotive delivery capture the spirit of the civil rights movement.

The second part of the film features performances by Bob Dylan, Peter, Paul and Mary, and Judy Collins, among others. Dylan, who was at the peak of his popularity at that time, delivers powerful renditions of his songs, including "Mr. Tambourine Man" and "Love Minus Zero/No Limit."

The final part of the film showcases performances by Pete Seeger, The Freedom Singers, and The Staple Singers, among others. Seeger's performance of "We Shall Overcome" is a stirring moment, and his banjo playing and rich voice convey a deep-rooted sense of social justice and activism.

Interspersed between the performances are interviews with the artists and footage of the festival-goers. The interviews provide insights into the motivations and beliefs of the artists, while the footage of the crowds captures the energy and enthusiasm of the festival.

The film is shot in black and white, which gives it a timeless quality and enhances the sense of nostalgia that it evokes. The cinematography is well-executed, with sweeping shots of the festival grounds and close-ups of the performers that capture the intensity and emotion of their music.

In conclusion, Festival is a seminal film of the 1960s that captures the spirit of the folk music movement and the social and political issues of the era. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the music and culture of that time.