I saw the Coachella Movie last night (not to be confused with the Coachella Film Festival that goes on during Coachella). It was a one night only showing of the best performances for the past 6 years. I'm not really sure why they chose to do a one night only thing instead of a normal movie-run, but I assume they will release it on DVD eventually, so have little fear.
Overall very enjoyable. 3/4 stars. Even the most novice filmmaker couldn't miss the excitement and energy that is Coachella. Almost makes you forget how hot and miserable it can get. Also makes me wish I spent more time in the DJ tent dancing.
My favorite performance was Bjork's "All is full of love", with the beautiful string backups and her crazy outfit. My favorite reliving Coachella 2004 moment was when Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips went out into the crowd in his space bubble. My favorite non-performance piece was definitely during Saul Williams, a very political slam poet rapper, performance. They cut to Noel Gallagher of Oasis talking about how music is there to entertain and make you feel good, and that musicians should stop pretending like music can change the world politically. Then back to Saul Williams talking about making a difference, changing the world with our collective energies.
I consider myself somewhat of a music addict. I spend 80% of every day listening to music. Yes it motivates me, can change my mood, can make me think and let me sleep. At the same time, hearing all these artists talk about nothing while rearranging the same words (energy, difference, powerful, togetherness) to make yet another meaningless sentence gets numbing.
I also thought the transitions between bands were a bit sloppy, but with excellent performances it was easy to see past the few shortcomings.
And just in case you are going this year, tickets go on sale Feb 4th at noon.