Jonathan Berman's evenhanded documentary chronicles the history of the Black Bear Ranch commune, which was founded in 1968 and lasted long after most idealistic experiments in communal living crashed and burned. Black Bear occupies 80 acres of isolated wilderness in Siskiyou, California. A small group of free-thinking malcontents bought it for $22,000, which they raised by hitting up actors and musicians — including Frank Zappa and James Coburn — who they felt had enriched themselves by exploiting counter-culture attitudes and styles and were due to give something back. Berman interviews a colorful cross section of Black Bear alumni and matches vintage and newly shot...
Released:
2006
Rated:
NR
Length:
78 mins