Is Neil Young: Freedom Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1990)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Neil Young: Freedom (1990), audiences are invited back into the world of Music. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. ""Freedom" is an acoustic live performance by singer-songwriter Neil Young that was released on video in 1990 in conjunction with his 1989 studio album of the same name. The video includes performances of seven songs that were filmed in Jones Beach, NY on September 5, 1989, and at the Palladium in New York City on September 6, 1989. Six of the songs are performed solo by Young on vocals, guitar, harmonica, and piano. One song, "Too Far Gone," features long-time Young collaborators Ben Keith and Frank "Poncho" Sampedro on Dobro and Mandolin, respectively. Set List: 1. Crime in the City (6:15), 2. This Note's for You (2:39), 3. No More (5:13), 4. Too Far Gone (3:13), 5. After the Gold Rush (4:43), 6. Ohio (3:31), 7. Rockin' in the Free World (4:46)."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Neil Young attempts to elevate the material, but the direction leaves them with little to work with. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Music. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Neil Young: Freedom worth your time? If you appreciate Music films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Neil Young: Freedom misses the mark on several fronts. With a runtime of 31 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Skip It.