Review of El Cantante (2006) by Mercedes Zoé C — 11 Aug 2007

I must say that I was sort of reluctant on watching this film because of Marc and JLo. I thought that it would be hard to forget them and just see Hector and Puchi because of their over-exposition. Yes, it was hard for me, but I still was able enjoy the movie and their acting was excellent.

Throughout the movie, you can see more of Hector and Puchi and less Marc and JLo, respectively. I don't think the drug scenes were too much. As hard as it is to admit it, that was the real deal and most of his life was dictated by drugs.

Even his songs tell everything about his life. Compare this to "La vie en rose", in which we could see an almost "wasted" Piaf because of painkillers and alcohol. If Lavoe's life hadn't been this intense and tragic, you can bet that this movie wouldn't even exist, because we all like tragic stories of great people that have done something important in this world as sick and harsh as it may sound.

Two words for all of those who criticized that aspect from the movie: false puritanism. Want another example that can be compared to this? Watch "The Doors". And please don't tell me that the drug issue shouldn't be addressed/ shown in the movie, because that played a huge part on Jim Morrison's life too.

And I'm saying this with all due respect. Anyway, the music was incredible. The arrangements were beautiful and well done, just like the original ones. To hear the violins when "El cantante" was played gave me the chills.

The sound was crisp and clear, just beautiful. Marc also did a great job singing. I just wanted to get of my seat and start dancing. John Ortiz (who played Willie Colon) was my favorite one on the movie.

I almost cried at the end. I had to see it two times, and it was definitely worth it. One of my favorite films from now on.