Shadows and Light (1980): cast, story & where to watch
1980 · Film · ★ 6.8
Released in 1980, Shadows and Light is a music and documentary film directed by Joni Mitchell, running about 73 minutes. “Joni Mitchell Jaco Pastorius Pat Metheny World Music” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Joni Mitchell's 1970s and '80s forays into jazzier territory may have distressed her folkie faithful, but they also resulted in some uncompromising, challenging, and, yes, entertaining music. Witness this 73-minute document from her '79 tour, which finds her backed by her greatest band ever. Mitchell's The Hissing of Summer Lawns-Hejira-Mingus period is heavily favored; there are two tunes from Court and Spark, but nothing earlier. It's not perfect--the film clips edited into the live tracks (at Mitchell's direction) are an annoying distraction (Rebel Without a Cause? Huh?). But by the time Mitchell, Mays, and vocal group the Persuasions finish a spine-tingling version of the title song, you'll have witnessed something special--and historic, as this was the only time this stellar crew toured together. --Sam Graham
Who’s in it. Shadows and Light stars Joni Mitchell as Joni Mitchell (electric guitar, vocals), Pat Metheny as Pat Metheny (Lead Guitar), Jaco Pastorius as Jaco Pastorius (bass) and Lyle Mays as Lyle Mays (Keyboards), among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.8/10, Shadows and Light has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Shadows and Light page.
If you liked it. Fans of Shadows and Light tend to enjoy Whiplash, Coco, Green Book and The Legend of 1900.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Shadows and Light (1980)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Shadows and Light change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Shadows and Light worth watching?
- Shadows and Light holds an audience score of 6.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy music and documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Shadows and Light?
- Shadows and Light stars Joni Mitchell, Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, Lyle Mays and Don Alias.
- When was Shadows and Light released?
- Shadows and Light was released in 1980, with a runtime of about 73 minutes.