Buena Vista Social Club

To be shown: 25 March 2002

Germany 1999
104 minutes
Directed by Wim Wenders
Leading players - Ry Cooder, Ruben Gonzalez, Omara Portuondo.

Synopsis

This is a fascinating documentary about a group of veteran Cuban musicians, filmed partly at home as they record a second album of music after their first multi-million selling disc, and at two concerts in New York and Amsterdam.

Although Wenders briefly touches on the Cuban situation and how life under Castro can affect musicians such as the ones in this film (they are almost totally unrecognised by their countrymen), he never explores this in depth but concentrates on the music instead.

The coverage of the concerts is excellent, the music speaking for itself. Wenders cleverly dovetails the footage of the concerts with interviews explaining the origins of the musicians.

Perhaps the most moving moment occurs wlhen Gonzales and the others arrive in New York, a city they have dreamt of visiting but never thought they would. Their delight in being able to perform once more is plainly evident.

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Those who already know and appreciate the special Cuban sound and mood will enjoy this film, but for others it may be an acquired taste.