Hippie culture emerged in the 1960s as a countercultural movement, advocating for peace, love, and equality. It continues to captivate people even today, inspiring documentaries that delve into the hippie movement’s roots, ideologies, and lasting impact. If you’re interested in exploring this cultural phenomenon, Netflix has a variety of captivating documentaries that offer deep insights. Prepare to embark on a nostalgic journey through the hippie era with these handpicked films.
1. “Woodstock: Three Days that Defined a Generation” (2019) – Directed by Barak Goodman and Jamila Ephron, this documentary revisits the iconic Woodstock Festival of 1969. It provides a powerful look at the event that symbolized the peak of the hippie movement. Through archival footage and interviews, the film captures the essence of peace, music, and unity that formed the backbone of Woodstock.
2. “Magic Trip” (2011) – Directed by Alex Gibney and Alison Ellwood, this documentary retraces the cross-country road trip taken by Ken Kesey, the author of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” and his group of psychedelic enthusiasts known as the Merry Pranksters in the 1960s. Using newly discovered footage from their journey, the film provides an intimate and colorful glimpse into the birth of the hippie counterculture movement.
3. “Hippie Masala” (2006) – Directed by Damaris Luthi and Ulrich Grossenbacher, this heartwarming documentary takes you on a journey to the Indian Himalayas, where a community of aging Swiss hippies continues to live the countercultural lifestyle decades after the movement’s peak. The film explores the harmonious coexistence between these Westerners and their Indian neighbors, highlighting the universal themes of freedom, love, and acceptance.
4. “The Source Family” (2012) – Directed by Maria Demopoulous and Jodi Wille, this compelling documentary dives into the life and teachings of Jim Baker, the spiritual leader of a 1970s Los Angeles-based commune called The Source Family. Offering an authentic portrayal of their communal living, esoteric practices, and Baker’s quest for spiritual enlightenment, the film explores the highs and lows of the hippie movement from a unique perspective.
5. “Bear’s Kiss” (2017) – Directed by Sergey Tsyss, this visually stunning documentary explores the life and legacy of Stephen Gaskin, a prominent figure in the hippie movement and the founder of The Farm, an intentional community formed in the early 1970s in Tennessee. The film delves into the community’s efforts to live sustainably while embracing peace, equality, and self-reliance.
6. “The Seventies” (2015) – Although not solely focused on the hippie movement, this documentary series created by Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman provides a comprehensive overview of the 1970s, including its impact on countercultures. With an episode dedicated to the hippie era, it examines topics like the Vietnam War, protests, drug culture, and the societal changes that shaped this transformative decade.
7. “Flower Power” (2011) – This German-produced documentary explores the global reach of the hippie movement and its cultural impact on the world, featuring interviews with influential figures such as Wavy Gravy and Tom Hayden. Through vibrant archival footage and atmospheric soundtracks, the film provides an immersive experience into the worldwide phenomenon that defined the 1960s.
These documentaries offer a diverse range of perspectives on the hippie movement, shedding light on its origins, philosophies, and enduring legacy. They allow viewers to revisit this transformative period and understand why the hippie movement remains an ongoing source of inspiration for countless individuals today. So, grab some popcorn, turn on Netflix, and embark on a captivating journey through the countercultural revolution of the hippie era. Peace, love, and happy viewing!