The groundbreaking group America continues to perform with original member Dewey Bunnell on their “Ride On Tour 2024,” and now the band is the subject of a new documentary I Need You: 53 Years Of The Band America. After 53 consecutive years of touring and over 5000 performances, the original members of the band are reflecting on their journey. The documentary takes audiences backstage as Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell privately say goodbye to a lifetime together on the road. The film will have its world premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival on Tuesday, October 22 at the Lido Theater in Newport Beach, CA with the screening beginning at 7:30 PM.

Fans will also have the opportunity to participate in a special Q&A session with Gerry, Dewey, and the filmmakers immediately following the screening. Moderated by Denny Tedesco, director of The Wrecking Crew and Immediate Family, this discussion will offer a look at the band’s legacy and the making of the film.

The film was produced by Highway West, Warner Music Entertainment, and Primary Wave Music, and is represented by Submarine Entertainment. It is directed by Dustin Elm and David Breschel, and produced by Jack Piatt, Charlie Cohen, Natalia Nastaskin, and David Breschel.

In addition to the Newport Beach screening there will be two additional showings of the film this Fall:

• Ojai Film Festival: Join us on a nostalgic journey up the “Ventura Highway” at the Ojai Film Festival with a screening on November 4 at 4:00 PM.
• Coronado Island Film Festival: The film will also be shown at the Coronado Film Festival on November 10 at 10:00 AM.

Directors’ Statement:

“Dewey and Gerry have chosen this film as the platform to publicly announce the end of their 53 consecutive years of touring together. It has been the ultimate privilege to get the chance to document America’s farewell to a lifetime dedicated to one of the most iconic runs in music history. 

We wanted this movie to not only tell the story of a band that has left an indelible mark on the history of music, but also look beyond the surface of the rock-n-roll lifestyle to reveal the dreams, challenges, and enduring partnership that have defined America’s unique trajectory throughout the band’s musical career.

Through candid interviews and intimate moments on the road, we hoped to paint a portrait that not only celebrates America’s musical legacy but also pulls back the curtain on the individuals behind their iconic songs.

As filmmakers, we’re driven by a shared passion for authentic storytelling and an unwavering dedication to preserving the true essence of our subjects. In this film, we strived to honor the spirit of America and offer audiences an experience that embodies the spirit of the band’s music and the profound impact it has had on generations.”