I’ve Seen The Grateful Dead Movie Dozens Of Times, So Here Are 3 Reasons I Can’t Wait To See The Upcoming IMAX Version

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Heading your way soon at numerous IMAX cinemas is the classic film “The Grateful Dead Movie“! Unexpectedly, this beloved 1977 concert movie (originally recorded during shows in 1974) has been updated for IMAX screens and will be shown for a limited period over the next fortnight in various locations. I’m just as thrilled about this as I was with the recent release of the Led Zeppelin documentary.

During my college years, we had a few traditions that we followed religiously. Every evening before hitting the town, we’d prepare White Russians and gather to watch “The Big Lebowski.” Often, instead of heading out, we’d pop in our vintage VHS tape of “The Grateful Dead Movie” on our 27-inch TV, kick back, and enjoy the soothing vibes. I’m thrilled about seeing this film not just on the big screen, but in the immersive IMAX experience. There are three aspects that have me especially excited.

The Theatrical Debut Of Two Songs Not Included In The Original Movie

If you haven’t seen this movie before, here are some details: It was shot across four nights in October 1974, with the promotion claiming it as the Grateful Dead’s final shows (they actually got back together soon after). The initial release took place on June 1, 1977, featuring 11 songs (12 if you count the jam from “He’s Gone”). These performances were captured at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco, which was their hometown.

In the revamped version of the movie, two tunes not originally featured are “China Cat Sunflower,” seamlessly transitioning into “I Know You Rider.” These songs were typically played together during the band’s concerts. The remastered footage of this “ChinaCat-Rider” sequence will be added as an extra at the end of the nearly 2.5 hour film. Although this footage has been included in previous movie releases, it will now be screened in theaters for the first time.

The Opening Animation

For decades, it’s been well-known among Grateful Dead fans that the opening animation sequence, created by Gary Gutierrez, accounted for nearly half of the film’s budget and nearly bankrupted the band as they were funding the movie themselves. While some may question its value, I stand firmly in the camp who thinks it was worth every penny. Admittedly, it’s a bit dated and a tad cheesy, but the visuals are incredibly iconic. When you see that motorcycle-riding skeleton, it emanates that unique Grateful Dead artistic flair.

That Morning Dew!

Morning Dew” is one of those songs where Jerry Garcia’s exceptional vocals and guitar skills seem to defy time and space. Often performed as the finale of their second set during peak performances, it was capable of creating a truly enchanting experience. The performance in this recording, sourced from the concert on October 18th, 1974, is outstanding. Watching it on an IMAX screen with a theater full of Deadheads promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Apart from these moments, I’m also looking forward to several others that have me thrilled. For instance, there’s the well-known fan enthusiastically jumping during “U.S. Blues,” and the lively rendition of “Goin’ Down the Road Feeling Bad.” This movie night promises to be a blast with one of the greatest concert films ever produced.

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2025-08-15 00:21