Review of Searching for Sugar Man (2012) by David A — 23 Oct 2012
I went into the theater not expecting anything especially compelling, but this documentary had an unimaginable payoff. Sixto Rodriguez, found in a foggy, industrial, riverside bar called The Sewer in late 60s Detroit, recorded two albums and then disappeared.
His producers had high hopes, but the records didn't sell in the U.S., and he faded into obscurity. Somehow a bootleg made it to South Africa, where he became an unlikely music legend. Everyone in South Africa knew Rodriguez.
The biggest legend in South Africa was the story of how he died - lighting himself on fire during a concert. A South African journalist investigated his death, and the startling consequences of that investigation led to the making of this film.
Highly recommended.
This review of Searching for Sugar Man (2012) was written by David A on 23 Oct 2012.
Searching for Sugar Man has generally received very positive reviews.
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