Commune (2005): cast, story & where to watch
2005 · Film · ★ 5.9
Released in 2005, Commune is a documentary film directed by Jonathan Berman, running about 78 minutes. “Peace and love are only half the story.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. In 1968, Elsa and Richard Marley founded an alternative-living community, named Black Bear, in the remote Northern California wilderness with the motto "Free Land for Free People." This film tells the story of that intended utopia. Through archival footage and interviews with former residents, director Jonathan Berman explores the problems and realities of communal living and the evolution of a community that endured FBI harassment, cult leadership and more.
Who’s in it. Commune stars Peter Coyote as self, Black Bear resident.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.9/10, Commune has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Philo, Fandor and Cineverse Amazon Channel. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Commune page.
If you liked it. Fans of Commune tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Commune (2005)?
- In US, Commune is available to stream on Philo, Fandor and Cineverse Amazon Channel. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Commune worth watching?
- Commune holds an audience score of 5.9 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Commune?
- Commune stars Peter Coyote.
- When was Commune released?
- Commune was released in 2005, with a runtime of about 78 minutes.