Woodstock

Woodstock

Year: 1970

Runtime: 184 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Wadleigh

HistoryMusicDocumentary

In 1969, a sprawling music festival took place on a farm in upstate New York, becoming a pivotal moment in cultural history. The Woodstock Music & Art Fair attracted over half a million people seeking freedom and self-expression through music. Despite challenging weather conditions, the event showcased a diverse lineup of legendary performers and fostered a sense of unity and shared experience that resonated deeply with a generation. A dedicated camera crew documented the three days, preserving the spirit of the festival and its enduring legacy.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Woodstock (1970)

Trace every key event in Woodstock (1970) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Setting the Stage

The film opens with the captivating melodies of 'Long Time Gone' and 'Wooden Ships' performed by Crosby, Stills & Nash. Stagehands are seen meticulously preparing the platform for the remarkable lineup of musicians that will perform shortly.

August 1969 Bethel, New York
2

Arrival of Fans

As the preparations continue, thousands of excited fans begin to arrive, swelling the numbers to an astonishing 400,000 attendees. The atmosphere is filled with anticipation as people from all walks of life converge to partake in this historic event.

August 1969 Bethel, New York
3

Insights from Promoters

Festival promoter Michael Lang and rock promoter Bill Graham provide their insights throughout the film. They discuss the challenges of managing such a massive gathering and the energy of the crowd, showcasing their dedication to creating an unforgettable experience.

4

Performers Take the Stage

Legendary performers including Richie Havens, Joan Baez, and Jimi Hendrix grace the stage throughout the festival. Their performances create an electrifying atmosphere, and each act adds to the rich tapestry of music and emotion that defines the event.

August 1969 Woodstock Stage
5

Local Discontent

Interviews with local farmers, merchants, and law enforcement reveal their discontent with Max Yasgur's decision to host the concert. Their concerns about the potential chaos and disruption in their community illustrate the tension between local residents and the influx of festival-goers.

Yasgur's Farm
6

Nature's Chaos

As the festival progresses, a storm rolls in, soaking the crowd and transforming the beautiful festival grounds into a muddy spectacle. Attendees embrace the chaos, participating in impromptu mud-sliding contests, showcasing the spirit of enjoyment despite the weather.

August 1969 Bethel, New York
7

Counterculture Spirit

The festival encapsulates the essence of the counterculture movement, with fans openly smoking marijuana and expressing their anti-Vietnam War sentiments. This rebellion against societal norms is a defining characteristic of the Woodstock experience.

August 1969 Bethel, New York
8

Medical Assistance

Throughout the event, medical assistance is provided by volunteers and the Army, demonstrating the communal effort that emerges in times of need. Scenes of nourishment and care highlight the support and survival mentality that prevails amid the chaos.

August 1969 Woodstock Medical Tent
9

Notable Appearances

The film features iconic moments with Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia, capturing their influence and artistry during the festival. These glimpses into their performances provide insights into the larger cultural impact of the event.

August 1969 Woodstock Stage
10

Culmination of Joy

As the festival approaches its close, an aerial view showcases the vast, unified crowd. The sea of people, cheering in unison, embodies the era's spirit of peace, love, and music, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Bethel, New York

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 11:24

Unlock the Full Story of Woodstock

Don't stop at just watching — explore Woodstock in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Woodstock is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Woodstock Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Woodstock, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Woodstock Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Woodstock

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Woodstock. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Woodstock

More About Woodstock

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Woodstock: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Woodstock