FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS FINE AS LONG AS YOU DON’T DO IT IN PUBLIC. 

It was easy to sympathize with the Dixie Chicks in 2003. During a concert in Britain, singer Natalie Maines let her fans know that she was ashamed to be from the same state as President George W. Bush who had decided to fight an unnecessary war in Iraq; the conservative backlash was fierce and the subsequent boycott hurt their career. This documentary, from veteran filmmaker Barbara Kopple, shows how the Chicks found a new audience and ways to heal themselves after all the commotion. The movie jumps back and forth between 2003 and 2005; we’re a fly on the wall and get to know these women as talented, honest and persistent. Lots of great music as well; this film has much to offer both for fans and viewers who are interested in the political battle after Maine’s statement.

2006-U.S. 93 min. Color. Produced by David Cassidy, Barbara Kopple, Cecilia Peck. Directed by Barbara Kopple, Cecilia Peck.

Last word: “As the project evolved – in the field and in the edit room – I think we all came to see this experience of the Dixie Chicks as a lens through which to see the current political climate in America. We’re living in a time when the freedoms we take for granted – the freedom of speech, the freedom to protest and dissent – are truly in danger. I think the story of the Dixie Chicks really encapsulates the risks we face – and at the same time shows that when you stand up for your rights, people will be there to support you, and follow your lead.” (Kopple, Indiewire)

IMDb