The Rise of Lilith Fair: A Documentary on Female Empowerment in Music
ABC News Studios and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) have acquired the U.S. rights to Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery, a feature documentary directed by Ally Pankiw. This film delves into the story of Sarah McLachlan’s groundbreaking 1990s all-female music festival, which played a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of the music industry.
The film made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it was met with critical acclaim. Following this, the CBC will air the documentary as part of its The Passionate Eye series on September 17. In the U.S., Hulu and Disney+ will stream the title starting September 21. Additionally, the film will be available on Disney+ internationally later this year.
This release coincides with the launch of McLachlan’s first studio album of new music in over a decade, Better Broken, set for release on September 19, along with a Canadian concert tour. The timing highlights the enduring legacy of the Lilith Fair movement and its continued relevance in today’s cultural conversation.
A Celebration of Women in Music
The documentary features interviews with some of the most influential female artists of the past few decades, including Sheryl Crow, Brandi Carlile, Erykah Badu, Bonnie Raitt, Jewel, and Olivia Rodrigo. These voices come together to tell the story of an event that was more than just a music festival—it was a movement.
Dan Levy’s Not a Real Production Company and indie Canadian distributor Elevation Pictures are co-producing the documentary, which is presented by White Horse Pictures in association with Epic Magazine. The project has been described as a labor of love by everyone involved, from the artists to the producers and storytellers.
“I'm so filled with pride and nostalgia watching this film,” said McLachlan in a statement. “Ally and the team have beautifully captured the magic and strength of a community of women who came together and lifted each other up to create positive change in the world.”
The Origins of Lilith Fair
The first Lilith Fair, launched by McLachlan in 1997, was a bold response to a male-dominated music industry that struggled to imagine a stage filled with women. It was a revolutionary concept at the time, and the festival quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Over the course of three summers, it brought together fans and artists in a celebration of female talent and empowerment.
However, the film also explores the challenges faced by the festival, including how female headliners were often marginalized and how the event sometimes became a target for satire, such as on Saturday Night Live. Despite these obstacles, the impact of Lilith Fair on the music industry remains undeniable.
A Collaborative Effort
The documentary draws on over 600 hours of never-before-seen archival footage, interviews, and stories from fans, festival organizers, and artists. It serves as both a tribute to the original festival and a reflection on its lasting influence.
The film is directed by Ally Pankiw, known for her work on I Used to Be Funny and Black Mirror, as well as directing episodes of Shrill and The Great for Hulu. She also helmed the first season of the Netflix comedy Feel Good, starring Mae Martin.
The production team includes a mix of seasoned filmmakers and emerging talents. Executive producers include Dan Levy, Christina Piovesan, and a host of industry leaders, while Rachel McLean serves as supervising producer and Nina Djacic as cinematographer.
A Legacy That Lives On
The documentary is backed by McLachlan’s co-founders of Lilith Fair, Terry McBride, Dan Fraser, and Marty Diamond, who will executive produce alongside Lynne Stopkewich, Jessica Fraser, and Dean English. It is presented by the Chicago Media Project and produced in association with Epic Magazine, Carlene Laughlin, Minderoo Pictures, and the Elfant Festa Family.
As the film prepares for its global release, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the enduring spirit of women in music. With its rich storytelling and powerful message, Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery promises to resonate with audiences around the world.
