Wattstax - The Special Edition:
One More Take

The powerful beauty and dynamism of the original Wattstax film was overlooked for decades. Due to rights complications and the mature themes of Wattstax's content, it received little play after its initial theatrical run in 1973. Correcting this neglect and providing new audiences the chance to see the film were reason enough to strike fresh prints and re-release it on the thirtieth anniversary of its premiere. But, after tracking down the long-lost original Isaac Hayes closing songs, "Theme From Shaft" and "Soulsville" and dressing the entire soundtrack up in newly remixed and remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 sound Wattstax - The Special Edition demanded, "Get me out there to be seen and heard!"

The challenge in evolving the 1973 version of Wattstax into Wattstax - The Special Edition was staying true to the original life and soul of the film while taking advantage of new knowledge and technology to add greater depth and richness to the initial vision - an endeavor accomplished with a sense of tribute and joy for the work and efforts of those who came before. Wattstax - The Special Edition proudly continues the legacy of the musicians, organizers, filmmakers and all who participated in the Wattstax experience.