TO LIFE, DEATH AND BEYOND: THE MUSIC OF MAGMA is a feature film that explores one of the most visionary and innovative music of the last 50 years, Magma. It takes the audience on a journey through several countries where the band has been filmed, fascinating interviews with fans and musicians, including Robert Trujillo (Metallica), Jello Biafra (Dead Kennedys), Trey Gunn (King Crimson). The film also includes an in-depth interview of the leader of the band, Christian Vander, and various musicians who were part of this extraordinary adventure over a period of more than 45 years.
Watch the trailer:
The film is packed with archival footage and an amazingly beautiful soundtrack is always flowing underneath. It is articulated around 6 chapters, taking the viewers on a journey through Christian Vander's childhood, his discovery of John Coltrane who became his mentor, the birth of Magma and the different periods of the band. It also covers Christian's unique approach and philosophy on music and life along with a tribute to the band's be album, "Mekanik Destruktiw Kommandoh." It ends on an inspiring and moving section where fans from various countries share the impact that the music has had on their life.
Written & Directed by Laurent Goldstein, the film was created to be seen and enjoyed by both fans of Magma and people who do not know this music. Christian Vander's story packs an emotional wallop and is a tremendous source of inspiration for anybody who has a passion in life and wants to realize their dream.
"To Life, Death and Beyond: the Music of Magma" will premiere in Toronto at the Royal cinema on August 20th at 2:00 PM. Magma will be perfoming live at the Mod Club Theatre in Toronto that evening. The film will premiere in Montreal at the Casa Del Popolo on Aug. 22nd at 6:30 PM. Magma will perform two shows in Montreal on August 21 & 22 at the La Sala Rossa. Both film screening events will cost $10. Please note that to attend the concerts seperate tickets will need to be purchased.
Laurent Goldstein produced his first feature-length documentary, "Your Second Fifty" a motivational piece that demonstrates that in spite of prejudices and popular beliefs, there is a LIFE AFTER 50, and it can be amazing! The film was shot over an 18-month period, in 6 countries on 3 continents, and showcases 40 fascinating characters. It has been shown in motivational seminars throughout NORTH AMERICA since 2015.
In 2016, he produced - partly thanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign - his second feature-length documentary: "To Life, Death and Beyond: the Music of Magma," a tribute to the cult French progressive rock band.