Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band is a documentary film that chronicles the rise and fall of The Band, one of the most iconic and influential rock groups of the 1960s and 1970s. The film is based on the memoir of the same name by Robbie Robertson, one of the founding members of the group.
The film delves into the early years of The Band, when they were still known as The Hawks and served as the backing band for Bob Dylan. It explores their transformation into a fully-fledged rock band, with hits such as "The Weight", "Up on Cripple Creek", and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down".
Through archival footage, interviews, and performances, the film provides a personal and intimate look at the relationships that drove the band, including the tumultuous dynamics between Robertson, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, and Garth Hudson.
The documentary also delves into the group's battles with drugs, fame, and the music industry, which ultimately led to their disbandment. Despite their relatively short career, The Band's impact on popular music has been enduring and is still being felt today.
Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band is directed by Daniel Roher and features interviews with several prominent musicians, including Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Martin Scorsese, who directed The Band's iconic concert film, The Last Waltz.