Watch Patti Smith: Dream of Life

Patti Smith: Dream of Life, directed by Steven Sebring, is a captivating documentary that follows the life and career of the legendary musician, poet, and artist, Patti Smith. The film is a combination of archival footage, recent interviews, and intimate moments captured by Sebring over the course of 11 years, providing a revealing look into Smith's world.

The film starts with Smith reciting a poem about her home in Rockaway Beach, and from there, the audience is taken on a journey through her life. We see her early days in New York City, where she met guitarist Lenny Kaye and they formed a band together. The film highlights key moments in Smith's career, such as the release of her groundbreaking album Horses, her collaboration with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and her relationship with playwright Sam Shepard.

Throughout the documentary, we see Smith's passionate dedication to her art, as well as her commitments to social justice and political activism. The film also delves into Smith's personal life, including a heartbreaking loss and her experiences with motherhood.

One of the most powerful elements of the film is the way it showcases Smith's creativity and artistic process. We see her writing poetry, composing music, and performing on stage, capturing the raw power and energy of her live shows. Additionally, the film includes interviews with Smith's collaborators, including Lenny Kaye and guitarist Oliver Ray, providing insight into her creative process and her impact on the music industry.

The film also reveals Smith's spiritual side, as she talks about her connection to nature and the universe, and the role of art in elevating one's consciousness. Her thoughts on life, death, and the human experience are both thought-provoking and deeply personal.

Sebring's direction is both intimate and respectful, capturing Smith's essence without ever feeling intrusive. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning imagery and cinematography that evoke the artistry of Smith's work.

Overall, Patti Smith: Dream of Life is a compelling and inspiring documentary that showcases the life and art of one of the most influential musicians and artists of our time. It's a must-watch for fans of Smith's work, as well as anyone interested in the creative process and the power of art to transform lives.

Patti Smith: Dream of Life is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 66.