Purely Joyful Movie!

This is a small, humorous movie in some ways, but it has a huge heart. What a nice experience.

The thing I enjoyed most about the film is the fact that it doesn't shy away from being a super-sized-cliche;

By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

There are a few surprises in this series. None are really startling, but they make you understand more why you like this band in the first place. If you don't, hear them more. The Grateful Dead have all the goods: Joy, bravery, humanity, and musicianship. They're not without fault - see "humanity".This an excellent series for fans and, I hope, soon-to-be-fans. Advice: don't skip the credits. Their soundtracks are worth it.

One of the best expressions of the Grateful Dead. In telling the story, the documentary does an excellent job in conveying the mythos that drove the band from their outset and all throughout their odyssey. Best of all, the documentary tells the story using its own voice- it's a totally original approach and it pulls no punches. Are there gaps or things left out? Yes. But as Amir Bar-Lev has said in his interviews, there is a difference between writing wikipedia posts and telling a story. And he really tells a cool story. Regarding the soundtrack: the selections follow the story and the mood in a way that adds punch and poignance to the emotional groundswells that occur throughout the movie (and there are some really potent ones). Bararba Meir, Steve Parish, Dennis Leonard, and SAM CUTLER could each steal the show, but instead their contributions all intertwine, yielding something greater than the parts. And it was great to see Owsley's contributions recognized. So many good things to say about this film!!!! Lastly- the story is done in a way that works for "insiders" as well as anybody unfamiliar with the band. In that regard, it is very much like going to a Grateful Dead concert- there's plenty of room for everybody to make what they want of it. The Omnipotent Grateful Dead.... Bravo Amir!!!!!

I had the good fortune of viewing this documentary at a screening organized for friends of some of the folks involved in putting the film together. I had a bit of an appreciation for the Grateful Dead prior to viewing this film, but now I have a newly discovered fascination with the Dead, and feel like I could easily and happily be a Dead Head! I think this film is extraordinarily important as it chronicles one of the most iconic bands in history, in a way that has never been done before. I wholeheartedly recommend this film.

This is a must for any Dead Head. But, I would love to believe it is also a brilliant way to initiate someone on the Dead, if they can allocate the time! It's a wonderful journey through the 50 years of the Dead, with a truly masterful soundtrack (make sure to get a good sound system for your listening enjoyment). The editing is great. Lots of great interviews of the group, crew, friends and family. To be seen again!