Electric Picnic: The Documentary

Scene from Electric Picnic - The Documentary Image Name: Scene from Electric Picnic - The Documentary Description: Electric Picnic - The documentary Copyright: © RTÉ Stills Library RTÉ. This image may be reproduced in print or electronic format for promotional purposes only. Any further use of this image must be re-negotiated separately with RTÉ. Use is subject to a fee to be agreed according to the current RTÉ Stills Library rate card.

 


Filmed on nine hand-held cameras, using a small crew directed by Nick Ryan and produced by Image Now Films, this documentary captures the essence of last year’s eclectic line-up, eccentric activities and colourful festival goers at last year’s phenomenally successful Electric Picnic.


A ‘fly on the wall’ film unfolding chronologically – showing the initial set up of the stage and grounds in Stradbally, Co Laois, the three days of the Festival, and the aftermath – intercut by interviews with the artists and their performances. Featuring the first live recording of Kraftwerk in 12 years and performances by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Arcade Fire, The Human League and Royksopp alongside interviews with the Stereo MC’s, The Flaming Lips, Fatboy Slim and James Blunt  guided by the unlikely roving boho’s musician Nick Seymour (ex-Crowded House) and Ireland’s celebrity economist David McWilliams.


More than just documenting the music, however, the film sets out to capture the unique atmosphere of the festival; teepees and Mongolian yurts, meadows of giant coloured flags, burlesque cabaret girls rubbing shoulders with Ibiza fall-out, Moroccan mint tea and organic food, old black and white flicks in a giant cinema marquee and a smattering of bongo enthusiasts.