Verdict:Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.6/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Documentary, Music genre.
Answer: Yes, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 2011, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on From civil rights to the anti-war movement to the struggles of workers, folksinger Phil Ochs wrote topical songs that engaged his audiences in the issues of the 1960s and 70s. Under the direction of Kenneth Bowser, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Phil Ochs. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is available for streaming on OVID. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. From civil rights to the anti-war movement to the struggles of workers, folksinger Phil Ochs wrote topical songs that engaged his audiences in the issues of the 1960s and 70s. In this biographical documentary, veteran director Kenneth Bowser shows how Phil's music and his fascinating life story and eventual decline into depression and suicide were intertwined with the history-making events that defined a generation. Even as his contemporaries moved into folk-rock and pop music, Phil followed his own vision, challenging himself and his listeners. Not one to pull punches, Ochs never achieved the commercial success he desperately desired. But his music remains relevant, reaching new audiences in a generation that finds his themes all too familiar. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2011 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune (2011): with an audience rating of 6.6/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Documentary, Music cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
OVIDAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.6/10, and global collection metrics, Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2011 cinematic year.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune has received mixed reviews with a 6.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary, Music movies, but read reviews first.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is currently available for streaming on OVID. You can also check for it on platforms like OVID depending on your region.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune has received mixed reviews with a 6.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary, Music movies, but read reviews first.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is currently available for streaming on OVID. You can also check for it on platforms like OVID depending on your region.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a Documentary, Music movie that follows: From civil rights to the anti-war movement to the struggles of workers, folksinger Phil Ochs wrote topical songs that engaged his audiences in the issues of the 1960s and 70s. In this biographical doc...
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is classified as Documentary, Music. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
From civil rights to the anti-war movement to the struggles of workers, folksinger Phil Ochs wrote topical songs that engaged his audiences in the issues of the 1960s and 70s. In this biographical documentary, veteran director Kenneth Bowser shows how Phil's music and his fascinating life story and eventual decline into depression and suicide were intertwined with the history-making events that defined a generation. Even as his contemporaries moved into folk-rock and pop music, Phil followed his own vision, challenging himself and his listeners. Not one to pull punches, Ochs never achieved the commercial success he desperately desired. But his music remains relevant, reaching new audiences in a generation that finds his themes all too familiar.
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