Watch Long Strange Trip: The Untold Story Of The Grateful Dead

Long Strange Trip: The Untold Story of the Grateful Dead is a 2017 documentary film about the American rock band, the Grateful Dead. Directed by Amir Bar-Lev, the film explores the band's history, music, and impact on American culture. The documentary is split into six episodes, each focusing on a different period of the band's career.

The film begins by introducing the band and their origins in the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1960s. The Grateful Dead was formed by Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Ron "Pigpen" McKernan, Bill Kreutzmann, and Mickey Hart. The band quickly became a major player in the psychedelic rock scene.

The documentary examines the band's early years, including their first performances at the Acid Tests and their breakthrough at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. It also looks at the band's relationship with the counterculture movement and their involvement in political protests and activism.

As the band's popularity grew, they began experimenting with their music and sound. The documentary explores how the Grateful Dead's improvisational style evolved over time, and how they incorporated elements of jazz, blues, and folk music into their songs.

The film also delves into the band's personal lives, including the drug use and partying that became synonymous with the hippie movement. It examines how the band's lifestyle affected their music, relationships, and ultimately their longevity.

Throughout the film, the creators interview the surviving members of the band, as well as their friends, family, and fans. They also include archival footage and rare performances, highlighting the band's impact on American music.

The documentary also looks at the Grateful Dead's influence on other musicians and their fans. The band's fans, known as "Deadheads," were known for their dedication and loyalty. The documentary explores how the Grateful Dead created a unique community of fans, and how they inspired a new appreciation for live music.

Long Strange Trip is a comprehensive look at the Grateful Dead's history and legacy. It celebrates the band's music and explores their impact on American culture. The film is a must-see for fans of the Grateful Dead and anyone interested in the history of American music.

Starring John Perry Barlow, Tom Constanten, and Sam Cutler, Long Strange Trip: The Untold Story of the Grateful Dead is a fascinating journey through the band's history. The documentary is engaging, informative, and visually stunning. It is a testament to the Grateful Dead's enduring impact on American culture, and their legacy as one of the greatest bands of all time.

Long Strange Trip: The Untold Story Of The Grateful Dead is a 2017 music movie with a runtime of 3 hours and 59 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2 and a MetaScore of 78.