Tribeca Festival blew away audiences for the grand opening with the premiere of ‘Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World).’
The 25th anniversary was celebrated with a perfect storm of a night that had a starry gathering at the Beacon Theatre for the world premiere of HBO’s spectacular documentary exploring the beloved group’s out-of-this-world music, visuals, metaphysics, and joy.
Grammy- and Academy Award-winning Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson was applauded for his newest directorial achievements and massive applause was heard loudly for all the incredible artists involved with the film. He was joined at the premiere by Earth, Wind & Fire members Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson, along with The Roots members Ray Angry and Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter. Adding to the magical mix, musicians Flavor Flav, Chuck D, Jimmy Jam, and H.E.R. came out for the big night out in Gotham.
Prior to the screening, Tribeca Festival co-founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal welcomed attendees to the opening of the 25th edition, reflecting on the festival’s beginnings and its evolution over the past 25 years.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 03: Robert De Niro speaks onstage at the “Earth, Wind & Fire” Opening Night Premiere Intro during the 2026 Tribeca Festival at Beacon Theatre on June 03, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival)
Following the premiere, audiences were treated to an electrifying live performance by Earth, Wind & Fire and The Roots, kicking off the festival with an unforgettable evening of film and music that showcased the legendary band’s enduring cultural impact.
In the film, Questlove takes viewers back to the beginning with this documentary on how the band formed and their journey unfolded with founder Maurice White leading the way. Peppered with interviews with famous faces influenced by the band, such as Barack and Michelle Obama, Flea, and Lionel Richie, beautiful line-drawn style animations and a plethora of archival concert footage that simply makes you want to jump up from your seat and dance, Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World) is something that OG fans will love as well as new admirers of a band that shifted culture forever.
Tickets are on sale now for amazing Tribeca Festival here. Happy Anniversary!
