Director: Wim Wenders
Actors: Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, Rubén González
PlotIn the late 1990s, a group of aging Cuban musicians, some of whom had been out of the public eye for decades, find themselves reunited through a series of serendipitous events. These musicians, all masters of their craft, had thrived during the golden age of Cuban music in the 1940s and 1950s, but the shifting political and cultural tides had faded their careers into obscurity. Despite the years that have passed and the obscurity that has enveloped their lives, their passion for music remains undiminished. When a well-known American guitarist and a British producer come to Havana, they are captivated by the raw talent and soulful melodies of these forgotten legends. This chance meeting sparks an ambitious plan: to bring these musicians back into the spotlight by recording an album and reviving the classic sounds of Cuban music.
The project quickly evolves into a cultural phenomenon, as the musicians – gathered together from different corners of the country – begin to collaborate and lay down tracks for what would become a historic recording. The recording sessions, filled with impromptu jams and heartfelt performances, not only rejuvenate the careers of these seasoned artists but also bring them international acclaim they never anticipated. As they work together, they reminisce about their pasts, sharing stories of the vibrant music scene they once dominated and the rich traditions that shaped their enduring sound. Enthusiasm spreads, and soon the group is offered the opportunity to take their music beyond the borders of Cuba, to share their legacy with the world.
MoreWriters: Wim Wenders, Nick Gold
Release Date: 04 Jun 1999
Runtime: 105 min
Rating: G
Country: Germany, United States, United Kingdom, France, Cuba
Language: English, Spanish
Blu-ray
Buena Vista Social Club: a compelling, technically superb film with great extras. Highly recommended!
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