ONLY THE STRONG SURVIVE

Year: 2002
USA: Miramax Films
Cast: William Bell, Jerry Butler, The Chi-Lites, Isaac Hayes, Sam Moore, Ann Peebles, Wilson Pickett, Sir Mack Rice, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, Mary Wilson
Directors: Chris Hegedus, D A Pennebaker
Country: USA
USA: 95 mins
USA Rated: PG-13 for brief language and a drug reference
USA Release Date: 9 May 2003 (Limited Release)


Synopsis

Documentary filmmakers D A Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus (STARTUP.COM, THE WAR ROOM) and journalist Roger Friedman had a mission: to catch up with the great soul singers of the 1960's and early 1970's. Many of the legends of soul died at an early age, but those who are still alive have been largely ignored since their youth - relegated to oldies shows and budget tours - until now.

The Pennebaker team put together a concert of the great soul survivors, reuniting many of the stars under the influential Stax record label, including Wilson Pickett, 'The Iceman' Jerry Butler, former Supreme Mary Wilson, The Chi-Lites, Sam Moore and Carla and Rufus Thomas. The result is a musical celebration of soul, a glimpse into the skewed world of the music industry and a compelling narrative of these seven talented acts who've lived extraordinary lives beyond our expectations.