Jimmy Carter documentary to open 2020 Tribeca Film Festival

ATLANTA — This year’s Tribeca Film Festival will kick off with a documentary about former President Jimmy Carter.

“Jimmy Carter Rock & Roll President” looks at the role popular music played in helping propel Carter from the peanut farm to the White House.

The film also shows how Carter’s lifelong passion for music gave him an unexpected edge as a candidate.

“Through folk, soul, gospel, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll, Carter tapped into a force that transcended racial and generational divides, and often party lines. Carter’s appreciation for all genres of music and friendships with the likes of Bob Dylan, the Allman Brothers, and Willie Nelson helped to define his campaign,” the film festival’s website said.

The movie brings together personal interviews with Carter and rare live performances from Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Buffett and Paul Simon.

“The film accurately captures my love for all music and the importance music has played in my personal and professional life. I remain hopeful and believe that music can serve to bring us together as a nation. Rosalynn and I are pleased with the fine film Mary and Chris have made and thank all those involved for telling this story. We are thrilled that it will debut at the Tribeca Film Festival,” Carter said.

“The world premiere event will take place April 15 at New York’s Beacon Theatre and be followed by live performances from Willie Nelson, who is featured in the doc via archival footage, and musical director Paul Shaffer,” the Hollywood Reporter said.

The 2020 Tribeca Film Festival runs April 15-26.

Cox Media Group