B-Side Takes "Bill"

A scene from Alex Vlack and Damani Baker's "Still Bill." Image courtesy of B-Side.

B-Side Entertainment announced that it has acquired Alex Vlack and Damani Baker's "Still Bill," which will be released via the distributor's Theatrical-on-Demand program where individuals and organizations can host a screening of any size, in any location, at any time. Beginning today, "Still Bill"'s website will allow audiences to sign up to host their own screening of the film.

"'Still Bill' is one of those rare documentaries that delivers what it promises: an incredible journey into the life of a legendary artist," said Chris Hyams, B-Side's Founder and CEO in a statement. "Bill Withers is as cool as his music, and a guy whose humility is completely incongruous with the enormous impact his songs have had on the music business and pop culture. Alex and Damani have done a brilliant job of crafting a beautiful portrait of this amazing man."

The film is a portrait of soul legend Bill Withers, best known for his classics "Ain't No Sunshine," "Lean On Me," "Lovely Day," "Grandma's Hands," and "Just the Two of Us." Baker and Vlack follow Withers and offer a look inside his world through concert footage, journeys to his birthplace, interviews with music legends, his family and closest friends.

"As long-time Bill Withers fans, we were honored that he let us into his life and shared the story of his ascent to Grammy-winning artist with us," said filmmakers Damani Baker and Alex Vlack in a statement. "Now, seven years later, we look forward to working with B-Side to impart that story to other fans who, like us, wondered what became of the talented man behind so many classic American songs."

This acquisition brings B-Side's current 2009 slate to eight films.

"Still Bill" is currently screening at the London Film Festival, and screens tonight in New York as part of the IFC Center's "Stranger Than Fiction" series.