Buena Vista Social Club - G

Cuban musicians tell their life stories through interviews and performances.

Rating: G for general audiences Studio: Artisan Entertainment Directed By: Wim Wenders Cast: Ruben Gonzales, Ibrahim Ferrer Running Time: 105 minutes Release Date: 07/21/1999 Genre: Documentary

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this documentary film is in Spanish and subtitled in English. Aside from a few men, smoking cigars, there is very little objectionable content. The film is rather slow and requires a good deal of attention to follow.

Families might discuss the cultural diversity featured in the film. How do the lives of the members of the Buena Vista Social Club relate to ours at home? How does music play a role in our everyday experiences? What kind of life lessons can we draw from the film?

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Afsheen Nomai

This film pays tribute to one of the most significant bands in Cuban history -- the Buena Vista Social Club. Virtually forgotten by the country that reared them, members of the group are reunited by Ry Cooder to record a final CD. The story's trajectory takes us from the run-down streets and rusty cars of Havana, to the flashing lights of New York City and opulence of Carnegie Hall. Part live musical performance, part fractured biography (the stories of 10 members are packed into 1 ½ hours), BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB paints, with very broad strokes, a portrait of a musical group whose members' passion for life and music is inspirational.

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB offers a wonderful opportunity for parents to not only expose their children to diverse musical styles, but also to examples of people who, even in their twilight years (some in their nineties), are very passionate and active musicians. Their unique perspectives on growing up as musicians in their native Cuba allow us to appreciate their talent to its fullest. Note: This film steers clear of any overt political commentary or controversy involving the island nation. The closest it comes is a brief account of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara playing golf. It's appropriate for all ages, although younger children might be bored by its pace.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content A few song lyrics imply sexuality.
Violence
Language
Message
	Social Behavior Very positive and inspirational representations of the elderly and of people working together as a group.
	Commercialism Some window shopping in New York.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco Some cigar smoking.