Review of Buena Vista Social Club (1999) by Jonathan D — 19 Apr 2011

A little-known but admirable documentary about a devoted Latin band and the strife they encounter while trying to make a living, Buena Vista Social Club may come off as a cheap educational film, but is also informative and interesting regarding how some citizens conduct means of survival and daily routine.

Set in Cuba, aging musicians (some aged 80 and older) showcase their talent in a tough country to live in (with Fidel Castro running the show). Their ensemble is headed up by Ry Cooder, who ventured out to Havana to unite the musicians resulting in talented performers making extraordinary music and leading them to a career.

Though not ranked on the same level as Kooyanisqatsi or Michael Mooreâ(TM)s documentaries, this one remains watchable as each character (interviewed in real life) and their testimonies given on film make the journey entertaining.

The runtime is longer than necessary and nothing but sub captions the whole way through, which may drive some viewers insane (though one character speaks a little English). Yet nobody can deny the musicianship of these people (both vocal and instrumental) is phenomenal. The story of how many of these poverty-stricken civilians have come to where they are (getting a record deal) is rewarding on its own level, with an exceptional soundtrack topping it off.

Though filmed with a minimal budget similar to someoneâ(TM)s home video (even the closing credits seem done at an amateur level), viewers pleased with success stories and detailed documentaries in general will find much to enjoy here. In-depth interviews with the musicians and footage of their performances also insert credibility and all mouths should drop in awe when we hear the high notes these brass players can hit. There is a saying that music can talk to you more than words, and that definitely may be said here. Kudos to the whole group!