Woodstock (film)

Woodstock is a 1970 American documentary film directed by Michael Wadleigh. It chronicles the 1969 Woodstock Rock Festival, held August 15–18, 1969, at Max Yasgur's 600-acre dairy farm in Bethel, New York. The film captures the spirit of the festival, showcasing performances by various artists, including Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, Joe Cocker, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and many others.

The film is noted for its innovative use of split-screen techniques and cinéma vérité style. It offers a broad view of the event, featuring not only the musical performances but also interviews with attendees, footage of the crowd, and scenes of the logistical challenges involved in managing such a large gathering.

Woodstock won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1970. It is considered a landmark film that encapsulates the counterculture movement of the late 1960s and is widely recognized as one of the most important concert films ever made. Subsequent releases included director's cuts with extended footage and additional performances. The film remains a significant historical document and a testament to the cultural impact of the Woodstock festival.