10 Movies & Shows Like The Last Waltz (1978)

Description: 'Monterey Pop' is similar to 'The Last Waltz' as both are seminal concert films that capture defining moments in music history. Directed by D.A. Pennebaker, 'Monterey Pop' showcases the birth of the summer of love, much like 'The Last Waltz' encapsulates the end of an era for The Band. Both films are celebrated for their authentic and immersive portrayal of live performances.

Fact: 'Monterey Pop' features Otis Redding's legendary performance. It was one of the first major music festivals, predating Woodstock. The film includes Jimi Hendrix's iconic guitar-burning act.

Description: 'Gimme Shelter' and 'The Last Waltz' both delve into the darker side of rock and roll, with 'Gimme Shelter' documenting the tragic Altamont Free Concert. While 'The Last Waltz' is a celebratory farewell, 'Gimme Shelter' serves as a cautionary tale, but both films are essential viewing for understanding the cultural impact of music in the 20th century.

Fact: 'Gimme Shelter' captures the infamous stabbing at the Altamont concert. The film was directed by Albert and David Maysles, pioneers of direct cinema. It features the Rolling Stones' performance of 'Under My Thumb' during the violence.

Description: 'Woodstock' shares with 'The Last Waltz' the celebration of a pivotal moment in music history. Both films document legendary performances that defined an era, with 'Woodstock' capturing the spirit of the 1960s counterculture and 'The Last Waltz' marking the end of The Band's influential career. The films also highlight the communal and transformative power of music.

Fact: 'Woodstock' won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film features performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Who. It was directed by Michael Wadleigh, with Martin Scorsese as one of the editors.

Description: 'Wattstax' and 'The Last Waltz' both celebrate the power of music to bring people together, with 'Wattstax' focusing on the African American community and the Stax Records roster. While 'The Last Waltz' is a farewell, 'Wattstax' is a revival of soul and R&B, but both films are deeply rooted in their cultural contexts and feature electrifying performances.

Fact: 'Wattstax' was held on the anniversary of the Watts riots. The film includes performances by Isaac Hayes and The Staple Singers. It was dubbed the 'Black Woodstock'.

Description: While 'The Last Waltz' documents the end of The Band's career, 'The Decline of Western Civilization' captures the raw energy of the burgeoning punk scene in Los Angeles. Both films are time capsules of their respective musical movements, offering unfiltered looks at the artists and the cultures they represent.

Fact: The film features bands like Black Flag and Circle Jerks. It was directed by Penelope Spheeris, who also did 'Wayne's World'. The film's title is a nod to Oswald Spengler's book.

Description: Like 'The Last Waltz', 'Stop Making Sense' is a concert film that captures the essence of a legendary musical performance. Both films are directed by acclaimed filmmakers (Martin Scorsese for 'The Last Waltz' and Jonathan Demme for 'Stop Making Sense') and focus on the energy and artistry of live music. The Talking Heads' performance is as meticulously crafted and visually striking as The Band's farewell concert.

Fact: 'Stop Making Sense' is often regarded as one of the greatest concert films ever made. The film features the iconic 'big suit' worn by David Byrne. It was the first film to be shot entirely on digital video.

Description: This film, like 'The Last Waltz', features a gathering of musical legends for a one-of-a-kind performance. The Rolling Stones' circus-themed concert includes acts by The Who, Taj Mahal, and John Lennon, mirroring the all-star lineup of 'The Last Waltz'. Both films were shelved for years before release, adding to their mystique.

Fact: The film was originally shot in 1968 but not released until

Description: 'Festival Express' parallels 'The Last Waltz' in its portrayal of a unique musical journey, this time a train tour across Canada featuring Janis Joplin, The Grateful Dead, and The Band. Both films offer intimate glimpses into the lives and performances of iconic musicians, blending concert footage with behind-the-scenes moments.

Fact: The film documents the 1970 train tour that spanned five days. It includes rare footage of Janis Joplin performing 'Cry Baby'. The tour was a financial disaster but a cultural milestone.

Description: 'The Wrecking Crew' shares with 'The Last Waltz' a focus on the unsung heroes of music. While 'The Last Waltz' highlights The Band's musicianship, 'The Wrecking Crew' documents the session musicians who played on countless hits. Both films pay tribute to the artistry and dedication behind the music.

Fact: The Wrecking Crew played on hits by The Beach Boys and The Monkees. The film took over a decade to complete. It features interviews with Brian Wilson and Cher.

Description: 'Muscle Shoals' and 'The Last Waltz' both explore the magic of music creation, with 'Muscle Shoals' focusing on the legendary Alabama recording studio. While 'The Last Waltz' is a concert film, 'Muscle Shoals' is a documentary, but both celebrate the collaborative spirit and timeless artistry of musicians.

Fact: The film features interviews with Aretha Franklin and Mick Jagger. Muscle Shoals was the recording site for hits by Percy Sledge and The Rolling Stones. The studio was known for its 'Swampers' house band.