What it’s about
This intimate doc and performance film showcases a memorable 1970 rock tour which traversed Canada by train. The impressive line-up of musical talent included Janis Joplin, Buddy Guy, The Band, The Grateful Dead, Delaney and Bonnie, and Sha-Na-Na. Complementing the live performances and fly-on-the wall sequences of the tour itself are revealing current interviews with the surviving participants.
Why we love it
Bob Smeaton's under-exposed “Express” recreates the heady, trippy times of 1970, when the memory of Woodstock was still fresh. Grateful Dead fans in particular will enjoy seeing the late, great Jerry Garcia in his prime and having a gas (The Dead song “Might As Well” was actually written about this special train journey). In addition, Joplin breaks your heart offstage (and dazzles you on). And how can you go wrong with The Band and Buddy Guy? Vintage rock fans, get on board the “Festival Express.”