Woodstock or Bust

Woodstock or Bust is a nostalgic coming-of-age film that will take you back to the 1960s, an era that celebrated independence, freedom, and a new way of looking at the world. This fantastic film, directed by Leslie Bloom, was first introduced to audiences in 2018.

The leading roles are played by notable celebrities, Willow Shields (renowned for her role as Primrose Everdeen in the Hunger Games series) and Meg DeLacy (known for playing the character of Grace Mullen in the series The Fosters), with a strong supporting cast including Teddy Van Ee and Elijah Stevenson.

The film tells the story of two ambitious, small-town teens, Meryl (portrayed by Shields) and Lorian (played by DeLacy), who share a deep bond and a common dream - to leave an indelible mark on the vibrant and ever-evolving music industry, and specifically, the iconic Woodstock Music Festival. Eager to perform and make a name for themselves, the two friends embark on a road trip across the country aimed at chasing their dreams and arriving at the Woodstock Music Festival. Unsurprisingly, their journey toward their dream becomes an adventure they will never forget.

At its core, the movie is a musical journey laced with a variety of wonderful songs and breathtaking performances that function as the backbone of Meryl and Lorian’s incredible journey. Filled with the spirit of a generation seeking to liberate themselves from social norms, the film is a euphoria of sixties music and youthful aspiration. However, it also allows viewers to explore other aspects like friendship, adventure, dreams, and the sheer will and determination of these two young women.

Willow Shields mesmerizes with her truthful performance as Meryl, a somewhat reserved but highly ambitious character, imbuing the role with a realism that connects the audience to her dreams and aspirations. Meg DeLacy playing the character of Lorian, adds the necessary contrast to Meryl’s character with her wild spirit and fearless attitude, rendering their friendship both endearing and dynamic. Moreover, the chemistry between the two leads is stunning and engaging throughout the journey, making their bond believable and relatable.

Supporting actors, Teddy Van Ee and Elijah Stevenson, also bring additional depth to the narrative, enhancing our understanding of the world that Meryl and Lorian are striving to change and enrich with their music.

Woodstock or Bust offers an authentic look back in time, reflecting the socio-cultural atmosphere of the sixties with its vivid art direction and set designs. The cinematography beautifully envelops the period's idiosyncrasies with details like costumes, props, and visuals that accentuate the vibe of the era. This makes it more than just a mere historical representation but a well rounded and textured peek into the past.

The film, besides its captivating storyline, offers a robust and colourful soundtrack overflowing with the music of the era. This serves to transport the audience into the heart and soul of the sixties, allowing them to experience firsthand the electrifying influence that these songs had, and their role in fuelling a generation’s hunger for change and independence.

Woodstock or Bust is more than just a coming-of-age film. It’s a testament to friendship, music, and conviction. It's a film that showcases the dreams of two young women looking to carve their own path amidst the societal restrains of their era. With an engaging story, excellent performances, and an arrangement of memorable period music, the film is a captivating ride from start to finish.

Whether you're a fan of the era, a music enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a well-told tale of friendship and determination, Woodstock or Bust is more than worth the watch. Its balance of reality and aspiration, alongside its celebration of music, youth, and adventure, makes it a must-see for anyone seeking both entertainment and a stimulating narrative.