Watch John Denver - Country Roads: Live in Birmingham

John Denver - Country Roads: Live in Birmingham is a documentary film that captures the iconic American singer/songwriter's live performance at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, UK, during his 1986 European tour. The film provides a nostalgic look at Denver's musical legacy, his passion for nature, love for people, and his prowess as a live performer.

The movie opens with breathtaking aerial shots of Birmingham, its landmarks, and its bustling streets, as John Denver's voice is heard singing his classic song, "Take Me Home, Country Roads." This instantly establishes the tone of the film, which is a celebration of John Denver's music and his connection to his fans.

The concert footage is interspersed with interviews with John Denver, where he speaks candidly about his childhood, his music, his love for nature, and his belief in the power of music to bring people together. He shares how his upbringing in New Mexico, surrounded by vast mountains and canyons, inspired him to write some of his most famous songs, such as "Rocky Mountain High" and "Sunshine On My Shoulders."

John Denver is accompanied on stage by a full band, and the concert is a mix of his greatest hits, fan favorites, and a few lesser-known songs from his then-recently released album, "One World." The setlist includes classics such as "Annie's Song," "Calypso," "Leaving On A Jet Plane," "Thank God I'm A Country Boy," and "Back Home Again."

One of the highlights of the movie is John Denver's rendition of "Grandma's Feather Bed," a playful, upbeat song that showcases Denver's ability to connect with his audience and get them singing along. Another standout moment is his performance of "Matthew," a haunting ballad that he introduces by sharing the tragic story behind its inspiration.

Throughout the concert, John Denver's love for his fans is palpable. He engages with them, shares anecdotes, and sings songs that have a special meaning to him. His voice is strong and clear, and his guitar-playing skills are on full display. The audience is clearly in awe of him, cheering, clapping, and even shedding a tear or two during some of the more emotional songs.

The film's production values are impressive, with stunning visuals, impeccable sound quality, and expertly shot footage of John Denver and his band. The camera work is unobtrusive, allowing the music to take center stage, but also capturing the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd.

Overall, John Denver - Country Roads: Live in Birmingham is a fitting tribute to an artist who left an indelible mark on the music world. It offers a chance to relive his live performances, to experience the energy and passion that he brought to the stage, and to be reminded of his lasting impact on generations of music lovers. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to John Denver's music, this movie is well worth watching.

John Denver - Country Roads: Live in Birmingham is a 1986 music movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes.