Soundtrack for a Revolution

The documentary film Soundtrack for a Revolution, which examines the origins, impact, and enduring legacy of the protest music of the civil rights era, is playing at Cine this week as part of the 2010 Amnesty International Rights Festival (3/19 - 3/21). Although the festival ended today, there will be additional screenings of the film later this week (days and showtimes available here). I don't know much about the film, but from the trailer...it looks good! Here's the synopsis from Cine's website:

SOUNDTRACK FOR A REVOLUTION tells the story of the American civil rights movement through its powerful music - the freedom songs protesters sang on picket lines, in mass meetings, in paddy wagons, and in jail cells as they fought for justice and equality. The music that evolved from slave chants, from the labor movement, and especially from the black church, enabled blacks to sing words they could not say, and was crucial in helping the protesters as they faced down brutal aggression with dignity and non-violence. The infectious energy of the songs swept people up and empowered them to fight for their rights. Executive produced by Danny Glover, the film is a vibrant blend of heart-wrenching interviews with civil rights foot soldiers and leaders, riveting archival footage, dramatic images, and thrilling contemporary performances by top artists, including John Legend, Joss Stone, Wyclef Jean, and The Roots -- a film of significance, energy, and power.

And here's a particular favorite of mine from the era...by the incomparable Odetta:

Chilly Winds - Odetta