JIMMY CARTER ROCK & ROLL PRESIDENT
2020 - USA - COLOUR
A FILM BY MARY WHARTON
FEATURING: MADELEINE ALBRIGHT, BONO, GARTH BROOKS, JIMMY BUFFETT, BOB DYLAN, WILLIE NELSON, FRANK MOORE
This presidential portrait shows how Jimmy Carter’s lifelong passion for music gave him an unexpected edge as a presidential candidate. Through folk, soul, gospel, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll, Carter tapped into a force that transcended racial and generational divides, and often party lines. Carter’s appreciation for all genres of music and friendships with the likes of Bob Dylan, the Allman Brothers, and Willie Nelson helped to define his campaign.
”Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President” combines intimate interviews with Carter along with rare archival era-defining live performances from: Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Buffett, and Paul Simon among others.
Director Mary Wharton traces how Carter’s genuine approachability and the unifying power of music became key to his political appeal, and allowed him to connect with voters who may only have known him as a small town peanut farmer.
“Carter himself ties a bow on the film, noting that music is a galvanizing force and that what will unite mankind is a shared respect for truth, God, freedom and democracy. That and a righteous Allman Brothers jam.” - Globe and Mail
“it’s a portrait of a deeply principled and decent man who rose from a boyhood home with no electricity of plumbing to the highest office in the land. Director Mary Wharton has made an affectionate film about a time when decency reigned; a movie that seems, these days, like ancient history.” - CTV Newschannel, CTV Toronto, CP24
“As the us election looms, a look back at a compassionate president… uplifting and fun film, a treat and reminder that good folks are out there in the world of politics. Don’t give up yet.” - What She Said
“Gives new meaning to “rock the vote” - POV
“Music-themed doc on 39th president a star-gazer’s delight” - Original CIN
“Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President director Mary Wharton talks elections and music” - Stir
“a lovely reminder of a gentler time in politics.” - National Post