This hour-long documentary examines the short but tumultuous history of the Mamas and the Papas, who became one of the biggest pop groups of the late '60s, crafting such hits as "California Dreamin'," "Monday, Monday," "I Saw Her Again Last Night," and "Dedicated to the One I Love," before romantic tensions, creative differences, and drug abuse broke up the quartet at the height of their fame in 1968. The Very Best of the Mamas and the Papas features interviews with group members John Phillips,
Michelle Phillips, and Denny Doherty, as well as several friends and contemporaries, including John Stewart,
Scott McKenzie and Elaine "Spanky" McFarlane (who replaced the late Cass Elliot in a latter day version of the group). The film also includes the group performing a number of their hits, utilizing vintage concert footage and television appearances (including highlights from their guest spot on
The Ed Sullivan Show). ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide