Let's dive into the world of 'Summer Tour,' a documentary that takes us on a journey with the iconic Deadheads, those nomadic followers of the Grateful Dead. This film, with Chloë Sevigny as a producer, offers a glimpse into the lives of these blissed-out individuals and their unique lifestyle.
The '60s counterculture movement, often associated with middle-class kids slumming it, has left a lasting impact on society. And the Deadheads, with their distinctive look and carefree attitude, are a perfect embodiment of that era's spirit. 'Summer Tour' introduces us to the third generation of Deadheads, a group of young, shaggy Zoomers who seem to have found their tribe.
The Deadhead Tribe
The central figures, Jerry and Annie, are a couple in their early twenties, driving across the country in their van, adorned with macramé and potted plants. Their appearance is a testament to the Deadhead aesthetic: long, blondish-brown hair, tie-dye shirts, nose rings, and a general air of carefree stoners. But beneath this costume, there's a genuine yearning for something deeper, a connection to something tribal and ancient.
A Lifestyle, Not Just a Costume
While they may resemble the heroes of 'Wayne's World' in their aimless hanging out, Deadheads seek an alternative lifestyle, a community where they can be free and express themselves. Annie, from Santa Cruz, and Jerry, from upstate New York, visit his traditional family, highlighting the contrast between their nomadic lives and the more conventional world. Jerry, with his long hair and guitar, seems content with his parents and his life on the road.
The Never-Ending Spring Break
The documentary captures the wandering fan carnival, a never-ending Spring Break filled with driving, skinny dipping, and setting up camp at Shakedown Street, the open-air marketplace outside the concerts. Deadheads sell vegan grilled cheese, handmade clothing, and crafts, creating a unique, self-sustaining community. They dance, tripping on acid, and talk about their happiness and freedom, emphasizing the sense of community and unity.
A Lack of Perspective
However, 'Summer Tour' falls short in providing a larger perspective on the Deadhead phenomenon. It rambles like the Deadheads themselves, offering no insight into their lives beyond their wanderings. The film is a jellyfish, lacking a dramatic spine, and while it captures the good vibes and stoner aphorisms, it fails to delve deeper into the cultural significance of the Deadhead movement.
A Festival of Privilege
Personally, I think the documentary's lack of structure mirrors the Deadheads' own absence of structure. It's almost as if the filmmakers are afraid to look too closely, for fear that the whole thing might crumble. And perhaps that's the point. The Deadhead carnival is a celebration of privilege, a blissed-out, navel-gazing experience that, in its non-threatening nature, allows its participants to escape reality for a while.
Final Thoughts
'Summer Tour' is an interesting glimpse into a unique subculture, but it leaves us wanting more. It raises questions about the nature of counterculture, the role of privilege, and the search for alternative lifestyles. While it may not provide all the answers, it certainly sparks curiosity and leaves a lasting impression.
