Live performances, rare home movies, and interviews with band members highlight this amazing look at The Grateful Dead’s phenomenal transition from their first recording, Anthem Of The Sun, to their classic fifth album, American Beauty. Suddenly these long-haired heroes from San Francisco weren't just another touring band blanketed by a ragtag army of devotees, but had truly become a musical force with a place secured in history. In newly taped interviews, Bob Weir and Phil Lesh walk us through scratch sheets that script the complicated effects, layering, and mood that helped shape American Beauty, and David Crosby discusses how the album was a high watermark vocally for the band. Also included, and of equal importance, is the meaning of this recording to each member - Jerry Garcia's mother was dying at the time - their growing legions known as "Dead Heads," and instrumental characters like Neil Cassidy from whom they sought inspiration, guidance, and general merriment. Truckin', Sugar Magnolia, Box Of Rain, and many other great tunes are featured.