Watch Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind

Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind is a 2019 documentary that delves into the life and music of iconic Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. Offering a comprehensive look into his creative process and the tumultuous personal life that inspired his songs, this film explores the many layers of Lightfoot’s artistry through a mix of archival footage, intimate interviews with the man himself, and insights from friends, family, and fellow musicians.

Directed by Martha Kehoe and Joan Tosoni, the movie begins with Lightfoot recalling his early years in Orillia, Ontario, where he began playing music as a young boy. He talks about his inspirations growing up, including Hank Williams and Bob Dylan, and how he was drawn to the storytelling aspect of folk music. Through vintage photos and home movies, we get a sense of his upbringing and familial relationships, particularly with his mother, who supported his musical ambitions from an early age.

The documentary then delves into Lightfoot’s professional career, charting his rise from local bars and coffeehouses to international success in the 1960s and 70s. Through anecdotes and reflections from peers like Burton Cummings, Sarah McLachlan, and Randy Bachman, we learn about the impact that Lightfoot had on the Canadian music scene and beyond, particularly with hits like “If You Could Read My Mind”, “Sundown”, and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”. The film also touches on the personal struggles that sometimes accompanied that success, including marital infidelity and struggles with drug addiction.

While the documentary includes a wealth of information about Lightfoot’s life and career, it is perhaps most notable for the intimate moments it captures of the man himself. Though he can be guarded in interviews, Lightfoot is remarkably candid in this film, discussing everything from his creative process to his regrets and his thoughts on mortality. The filmmakers also capture him performing some of his most famous songs in stripped-down renditions, showcasing the timeless quality of his songwriting.

Throughout the film, we also get a sense of the love and admiration that Lightfoot engenders in those around him. Former drummer Barry Keane talks about the camaraderie and creative chemistry that he shared with Lightfoot during their time in the studio together, while ex-wife Kim Lightfoot reflects on the highs and lows of their relationship. There are also touching moments featuring Lightfoot’s children, who reflect on what it was like growing up with a father who was often away on tour.

Overall, Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind is a moving and thought-provoking tribute to one of Canada’s greatest musical talents. While it may appeal most directly to fans of Lightfoot’s music, it is also a well-crafted documentary that speaks to themes of creativity, inspiration, and the complicated relationship between art and the artist. As Lightfoot himself notes at one point in the film, “It’s not what you get out of success, it’s what you put into it.” This documentary is a testament to the enduring legacy of that journey.

In conclusion, Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind is a beautifully crafted documentary that delves into the life and work of one of Canada’s most iconic musicians. With a mix of engaging storytelling, candid interviews, and powerful music performances, it offers an illuminating look at the creative process and personal struggles that shaped Lightfoot’s career. Whether you’re a diehard fan or simply curious about the man behind the music, this film is a must-see.

Gordon Lightfoot: If You Could Read My Mind is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8 and a MetaScore of 74.