The Sunshine Makers is a 2015 documentary that tells the story of Timothy Scully and Nicholas Sand, two men who were pivotal in the 1960s counterculture movement. Scully and Sand were responsible for creating a type of LSD called Orange Sunshine, which became a symbol of the psychedelic era. The film explores the history of the drug and the role that Scully and Sand played in its creation.
The documentary is directed by Cosmo Feilding Mellen and features interviews with Scully, Sand, and several other individuals who were involved in the counterculture movement. The film also includes never-before-seen footage and photographs from the era, giving viewers a unique glimpse into this tumultuous time in American history.
The documentary begins by introducing viewers to Scully and Sand, two men who were drawn to the counterculture movement for different reasons. Scully was a Harvard-educated scientist who became interested in the effects of LSD on the human mind. He began experimenting with the drug in the early 1960s and quickly became an advocate for its use. Sand, on the other hand, was a former advertising executive who was disillusioned with the consumerist culture of the time. He saw LSD as a way to break free from the constraints of society and experience a higher level of consciousness.
Together, Scully and Sand began manufacturing Orange Sunshine in a lab in California. The drug quickly became popular among the counterculture community, and they began distributing it throughout the United States. The film explores the impact of Orange Sunshine on the counterculture movement and the various political and social changes that were taking place at the time.
One of the most interesting aspects of the documentary is the contrast between Scully and Sand's personalities. Scully is depicted as a reserved and intellectual individual, while Sand is more outgoing and charismatic. This dynamic creates tension between the two men as their relationship is tested by various obstacles, including legal issues and personal conflicts.
In addition to exploring the history of Orange Sunshine, the documentary also delves into the larger issues surrounding the counterculture movement. The film touches on topics such as Vietnam War protests, civil rights, and the influence of the drug on the artistic community. Through interviews with historians and cultural commentators, the film highlights the significance of this era in American history.
Overall, The Sunshine Makers is a compelling and insightful documentary that sheds new light on the counterculture movement of the 1960s. The film is well-paced and engaging, providing a fascinating look at the lives of two men who played a crucial role in this cultural revolution. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in the psychedelic era, The Sunshine Makers is definitely worth watching.
The Sunshine Makers is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 68.
