Message to Love

Message to Love, released in 1970 but not seen widely until its home video release in 1996, is an ambitious and captivating rockumentary that offers a dazzling chronicle of the epoch-defining 1970 Isle of Wight music festival in England. Directed by Murray Lerner, the film features a prestigious roster of unique and legendary artists, including Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, the folk icon Joan Baez, and Martin Barre, also of Jethro Tull.

From the moment it begins, Message to Love transports audiences to a different time and place, immersing them into the experience of the event that unfolded over five days - the last great music festival of its era attended by over 600,000 music fans, making it considerably larger than the more famous Woodstock that took place the year prior.

Ian Anderson, with his dynamic performance and eccentric stage presence, personifies the spirit of the festival. Known for his theatrics on stage and his unique approach towards rock and folk music, Anderson's performances in Message to Love are some of the many highlights of the film.

Joan Baez, the folk legend, brings a sense of poignancy to the film with her tenacious stage presence. Her powerful songs and passionate delivery resonate with the anti-establishment, rebellious ethos of the time. Yet, she also provides a calming and poignant respite between more kinetic rock acts.

Martin Barre, the lead guitarist for Jethro Tull, brings his own energy and guitar mastery to the mix. His sinewy riffing is a key part of the festival's soundtrack and ever-present throughout the film. Barre's guitar work is an essential component of what makes Message to Love such an authentic snapshot of its time.

Message to Love does more than just show great performances, it captures the broader cultural upheaval of 1970; the clash between the hippie dream of free music and love, countered by the cold reality of commercial interests and financial hassiness. This is mirrored in the conflicts that arise due to the promoters organizing the festival, their confrontations with both musicians and fans. The film beautifully observes this clash between idealism and reality, giving viewers a nuanced look at a pivotal moment in music history.

Lerner's brilliance in directing Message to Love is most apparent in how he intertwines stunning concert footage with candid, behind-the-scenes interviews with artists, audience members, and festival staff. Interspersed with the breathtaking musical performances are vivid testimonies from those who were part of this historic event. The footage is intimate, capturing everything from the buzzing excitement backstage to the tension that builds up during the over-populated festival.

Message to Love also accentuates the stark contrasts of 1970 - the year when the optimism of the sixties began to tarnish. It's both an observation of a critical time in history when counter-culture was being commercialized, and a stunningly captured live music film.

In conclusion, Message to Love paints an enthralling, detailed tapestry of a monumental event in musical history, accented by fantastic performances by some of the greatest music artists of the time, including Ian Anderson, Joan Baez, and Martin Barre. It offers an experience that transcends above a simple concert film, plunging deep into the heart and soul of an era. While it may serve as a fascinating time capsule for those who lived through the time, Message to Love also offers a thrilling history lesson for new generations keen to experience a slice of musical heritage that deserves to be cherished. Whether you're a fan of rock, folk, or just a lover of music history, this rockumentary truly offers a 'message of love' that should not be missed.