Watch James Taylor: Pull Over

James Taylor: Pull Over is a 2003 documentary film that chronicles the life and career of the legendary American singer-songwriter James Taylor. The film is directed by Martyn Atkins and features exclusive interviews with Taylor himself as well as family, friends, and fellow musicians. The film opens with behind-the-scenes footage of James Taylor on tour, setting the stage for a candid look at the musician's life. We see him perform some of his most iconic songs, including "Fire and Rain," "You've Got a Friend," "Carolina in My Mind," and "Sweet Baby James." Taylor's unique sound is explored in depth, with insights into his songwriting process and the influences that shaped his music.

The documentary also delves into Taylor's personal life, discussing his struggles with drug addiction and depression. Taylor is refreshingly honest about these issues, painting a vivid picture of the trials and tribulations he faced throughout his life. His journey towards sobriety is particularly moving, as he talks about the impact that his addiction had on his family and friends.

One of the highlights of the film is the extensive footage of Taylor's early years. The documentary takes us back to his childhood in North Carolina, where he grew up in a musical family. We see Taylor perform with his siblings, as well as his first public performances at local cafés and nightclubs. The film also examines Taylor's time at the Apple Records label, where he recorded some of his most famous albums.

Another standout feature of James Taylor: Pull Over is the breadth of interviews with other musicians. We hear from Taylor's contemporaries, such as Carole King and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, who talk about their memories of working with him. We also hear from younger musicians who have been influenced by Taylor's music, such as Ben Taylor (his son) and Jack Johnson.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning footage of Taylor's concerts and performances. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of capturing the essence of Taylor's music, showcasing the raw emotion and vulnerability that have made his songs so timeless. The documentary also includes archival footage and photographs from Taylor's personal collection, giving viewers a unique glimpse into his life and career.

Throughout the film, there is a strong sense of intimacy and honesty that is rare in music documentaries. Taylor is incredibly forthcoming about his life, and his warmth and sincerity shine through. His love of music and commitment to his craft are evident in every frame of the film, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates his music.

Overall, James Taylor: Pull Over is a fascinating and entertaining documentary that provides a comprehensive look at one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. It's a portrait of an artist at the height of his powers, and a celebration of the enduring power of his music. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering James Taylor's music for the first time, this documentary is sure to captivate and inspire.

James Taylor: Pull Over is a 2014 musical with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.