Commune (2005)

-Written by Kyle Bain. 

The Black Bear Ranch Commune thrived in Northern California in the 1970’s (and continues to exist today). A place where people could express themselves how they saw fit, the commune introduced ideas of free living and acceptance in ways that were taboo to the rest of the world. This documentary showcases archived footage from the actual commune, while interviewing those that were there in its heyday, expressing both their love and distaste for things that occurred while they were there. 

Commune relies heavily on shock value in order to keep viewers interested and engaged–and to some degree it works. The Black Bear Ranch Commune experienced life far different than the majority of the United States, adopting ideals that aligned with the hippie movement of the 1960’s and 70’s, but sometimes extended even beyond what that movement stood for. Habitual nudity is one of the primary ways in which Writer-Director Jonathan Berman continues to attempt to reel in viewers. 

Nudity is prominently featured throughout the course of Commune, and while many of the participants from The Black Bear Ranch Commune express fond memories of their time, it’s quite telling of the imbalance and ineffective nature of the commune (at least to some degree). Additionally, while nudity does work to reel in certain audiences, the repeated use of nudity in Commune almost begins to feel grotesque and offputting. There are times when it becomes too much to handle, and the nature of the subject begins to lose its footing among viewers. 

Commune is a documentary that I initially believed would run its course and lose me by the halfway point. This managed not to be the truth, however, as Berman continues to use shock and awe to keep viewers interested. For a while it’s the nudity (regardless of the fact that it becomes a bit too much by the film’s conclusion), then it’s the accounts of those that were there and once experienced the insanity (at least what I’d call insanity) that existed on The Black Bear Ranch. Nuggets of information continue to be presented to viewers at just the right time, allowing Commune to remain relevant and tantalizing throughout. 

I always ask myself if the subject matter of a documentary is worth presenting to the world. Oftentimes I find myself convinced that the content of documentaries lack the gusto to warrant a film being made about it. In the case of Commune, there’s plenty to entice viewers for the film’s entire runtime. Commune is effective in presenting this taboo topic to viewers, and Berman is successful in keeping those viewers focused throughout. 

Written & Directed by Jonathan Berman. 

Starring Aaron Marly & Family, Amir Bey, Andy from Haight-Ashbury, Andy Getz & Sharon, The Beavers, etc. 

7/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE