Taking Woodstock (2009)

directed by Ang Lee

based on the novel by Eliot Tiber

with: Demetri Martin, Jonathan Groff, Eugene Levy, Emile Hirsch, Imelda Staunton, Liev Schreiber, Paul Dano,

Taking Woodstock revisits the three day experience of half a million people who gathered to be in peace and freedom while listening to music. The hippie scene of the 60's, which is directly linked to drug use and antiwar protests, is accurately portrayed in the movie, as it is based in original Woodstock footage and testimonials.

When I was in the theater watching the movie, three old ladies, who were original Woodstock goers, were melting in memories and laughter, they said things like 'oh, that brings back some memories' and everyone seemed to respect them for being part of that, for being part of an event that changed the world.

The movie has two main focuses. One, the organization, planning and issues with the place and event where Woodstock took place. Two, the liberation of a young man's mind as he experiences with drugs and sex.

Ang Lee's vision of Woodstock is better than I expected. It is liberal, as it should be, and reminiscent of the times, entertaining and somewhat informative. I expected less of this 40th anniversary celebration for the big screen. The movie is not revolutionary as Woodstock was, but it has eye catching visuals, especially when representing the LSD trip.

Slightly Recommended.

Rating: 6.5/10