2007, Portugal/Spain
Documentary, Music
READ THE REVIEW AT The Desert Sun.
Extended version:
Celebrated Spanish director Carlos Saura comes full circle with his cinematic exploration of musical genres. His latest film, the Goya Award-winning Fados, completes a journey begun a decade ago with Flamenco and Tango, and follows his recent filming of dances in Iberia and Salomé. Saura's films are often influenced by the cultural traditions which surround him, so it is no surprise that he focused on music steeped in history.
There is no dialogue in Fados, though the stories told through song are moving in their passion. According to the film, these songs are two centuries in the making, originating in Lisbon and influenced by former colonies in Africa and Brazil.
With 20 groups performing, the evolution of the fado is evident. There is an underlying correlation apparent through the intensity conveyed. Ranging from celebratory to mournful, Fados provides an expansive concert of the genre to which few would otherwise have access.
From carnival drums and whistles to the traditional Portuguese and classical guitar duets to hip-hop, the influence of fados is felt in various forms by the connection of passionate storytelling. Iconic musicians such as Amália Rodrigues and Lucília do Carmo are portrayed through old footage, with the latter's song receiving a fresh interpretation by a new singer, illustrating the continuation of the musical tradition over many generations.
A simple staging of back-projected scenes and silhouettes allows the focus to remain on the songs and the dancers illustrating the stories. Narration is not necessary as each song reveals its own history and humanity. The connection to the viewer is instinctual, though a greater education of the genre is sure to be in the future of some.
Whether a song of longing, love or betrayal, these are familiar and identifiable tales. The film appropriately concludes with a café setting and a rotating spotlight of personal songs and duels, demonstrating the community created through this shared artistry. As many of the songs imply, fados are in their souls.
Fados showcases the sort of enchanting music that causes audience members to buy a ticket to Portugal in order to enjoy the music in a live setting. Fortunately, the film accomplishes the task of transporting viewers to that state of mind, as if hearing the music for the first time in a city square. Saura highlights a broad range of talents sampling the fado tradition, and in doing so is sure to ensnare a new generation of fado aficionados.