Green Man Festival Premieres Unearthed Leonard Cohen Tour Film

Next month's Green Man Festival is known for unearthing upcoming names from the nu-folk scene, but this year rolls out the green carpet for its very own film premiere.

On show at Powys, Wales, will be a long-lost documentary about a Leonard Cohen European tour, last seen shortly after it was made in 1972. 'Bird On A Wire' was made by acclaimed filmmaker Tony Palmer, known for rock history series 'All You Need Is Love' and Frank Zappa's movie '200 Motels.'

Mired in artistic squabbles, a poor-quality version of the film enjoyed a limited run in 1974 and then disappeared for nearly 40 years. Last year, the original spools were unearthed in a Hollywood warehouse thanks to Steve Machat, son of its producer -- and Cohen's long-term manager -- Marty.

Palmer promises a treat for music fans as 'Bird On A Wire' features not only Cohen performing 17 songs, but also unrivalled on-the-road coverage.

"I know of few other films where the backstage confusion comes so vividly to life, with Cohen apparently taking no notice whatsoever of the camera," he says. "I doubt if today we would be allowed such access."

Having been painstakingly restored by Palmer, the film is to be shown at Glanusk Park on Aug. 19 -- the night before the festival proper starts. It is followed by a Q&A session with the director. The Flaming Lips, Billy Bragg and Beirut are among artists set to play Green Man.

A DVD release of 'Bird On A Wire' follows in September.