"Free Land for Free People": Jonathan Berman Presents a Restored "Commune"
Update: 2025-08-18
Description
Joining host Michael Azevedo on this episode is Jonathan Berman, director of the newly restored documentary "Commune." Originally released in 2005, the film has been newly restored with vibrant sound and picture quality and is currently making the rounds at movie houses across the US.
Commune chronicles the story of Black Bear Ranch, launched in 1968 with help from luminaries like The Doors, Frank Zappa, and The Monkees. This abandoned goldmine transformed into a hub for radical living, fueled by the motto "Free Land for Free People."
The film is packed with rare interviews—including with well-know actor and frequent documentary narrator Peter Coyote—as well as home movies and candid stories that unpack the contradictions, challenges, and wild hope behind the commune movement.
From free love and experiments in co-parenting, to the practical struggles of survival, "Commune" lets viewers consider what it really takes to build, and sustain, genuine community.
Learn more about screenings near you: https://www.opensignalstudios.com/films/commune
About the host: www.writevoicecreative.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-azevedo/
Sound Engineer: A.J. Kierstead
Commune chronicles the story of Black Bear Ranch, launched in 1968 with help from luminaries like The Doors, Frank Zappa, and The Monkees. This abandoned goldmine transformed into a hub for radical living, fueled by the motto "Free Land for Free People."
The film is packed with rare interviews—including with well-know actor and frequent documentary narrator Peter Coyote—as well as home movies and candid stories that unpack the contradictions, challenges, and wild hope behind the commune movement.
From free love and experiments in co-parenting, to the practical struggles of survival, "Commune" lets viewers consider what it really takes to build, and sustain, genuine community.
Learn more about screenings near you: https://www.opensignalstudios.com/films/commune
Making Media Now is sponsored by Filmmakers Collaborative, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting media makers from across the creative spectrum. From providing fiscal sponsorship to presenting an array of informative and educational programs, Filmmakers Collaborative supports creatives at every step in their journey.
About the host: www.writevoicecreative.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-azevedo/
Sound Engineer: A.J. Kierstead
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