The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack 2000
"After Woody Guthrie and before Bob Dylan came Ramblin' Jack Elliott."
Step into the dusty boots of a folk legend in *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack* (2000), a lyrical documentary that traces the extraordinary life of cowboy troubadour Ramblin' Jack Elliott.
Director: Aiyana Elliott
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack* (2000) about?
This documentary explores the life of Ramblin' Jack Elliott, a folk singer who bridged the gap between Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan. Through archival footage and personal interviews, the film traces his travels, mentorship, and enduring legacy in American music.
Who directed *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack*?
The film was directed by Aiyana Elliott, Ramblin' Jack Elliott's daughter, who blends personal insight with a filmmaker's eye to craft this intimate portrait.
Who stars in *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack*?
The documentary features Ramblin' Jack Elliott alongside notable musicians like Arlo Guthrie, Kris Kristofferson, Pete Seeger, and Odetta, alongside archival appearances.
Is *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack* (2000) worth watching?
For folk music enthusiasts and history buffs, this documentary is a treasure trove of nostalgia and insight. While IMDb doesn't rate it, its authentic storytelling and stellar cast make it a compelling watch for those drawn to music's golden age.
How long is *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack*?
The documentary runs for 112 minutes, offering a concise yet immersive dive into Elliott's extraordinary life.
About The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack (2000) — The untold story of a folk icon's rise and influence
Step into the dusty boots of a folk legend in *The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack* (2000), a lyrical documentary that traces the extraordinary life of cowboy troubadour Ramblin' Jack Elliott. Directed by his daughter Aiyana Elliott, this visually rich film blends archival footage with intimate interviews to uncover the man behind the myth—from his Brooklyn roots to his transformative years on the road. Witness his journey through the American South and West, his apprenticeship under Woody Guthrie, and his influential role in shaping the 1960s folk revival, all while mentoring a young Bob Dylan. With a soundtrack steeped in authenticity and a nostalgic visual palette, the film captures the spirit of a bygone era where music and wanderlust collided.
The documentary doesn't shy away from the complexities of Elliott's life, revealing the contradictions between his rugged persona and personal struggles. Through candid conversations with family, friends, and fellow icons like Kris Kristofferson and Arlo Guthrie, the film paints a portrait of a man who lived for his art, leaving an indelible mark on American folk music. It's a celebration of reinvention, resilience, and the power of a single voice to echo through generations—where every strum of a guitar tells a story.
Watch as history unfolds through the lens of a filmmaker who didn't just document the past but breathed life into it.