CMFH Film Reviews

2006, USA
Documentary, History, Music
Review by Deborah Dearth

A Romani proverb declares, "You cannot walk straight when the road bends."

This could not be more applicable to the migration of the gypsies, who began their journey in India 1000 years ago and eventually scattered throughout Europe. Director Jasmine Dellal uses her film to dispel the negative myths surrounding this varied gypsy culture by presenting the musical talents of five unique groups of Roma heritage.

Each group's story is enveloped within the documentation of their North American tour together, expertly filmed by cinematographer Albert Maysles (Gimme Shelter, Monterey Pop). Though an offstage soundman acting as narrator is a bit artificial, the music and individual stories are too outstanding to be muddled by this staging. These are people who have been persecuted and misunderstood for generations, but have proven their worth through a lifetime of impressive musical skills and generosity. Most of them help to support the livelihood of their hometowns and families, and they work hard to instill a source of pride in the next generations.

Esma "Queen of the Gypsies" Redzepova hails from Macedonia. She sings songs of protest with fire and spirit, and her popularity has brought respect to her culture. Her huge heart is not only expressive in her music but has helped her raise 47 foster children, a handful of whom play in her band.

The music of tuba-heavy Fanfare Ciocarlia is inspired by celebratory wartime victory songs. The musicians' earnings have brought electricity to their Romanian village. Taraf de Haïdouks also helps to support their Romanian hometown. A string band popularized in film, their heart lies in eldest band member Nicolai, who works with a wink in his eye to feed his entire extended family and to pay for their education.

The Spanish nephew and aunt team of the Antonio el Pipa Flamenco Ensemble demonstrate a passion of the culture. Juana explains the concept of "duende," the innate exhilaration that forces one to become overpowered with emotion. Antonio personifies these feelings through his graceful yet sexy Flamenco dance.

Incredibly skilled musicians from India, Maharaja create a mesmerizing sound from their instruments. It is fascinating to think that this music helped birth the other styles, but when the bands play together their shared roots become obvious. When the caste dances perform with the Flamenco dancing, it is noteworthy how unique they are in style yet similar in rhythms.

Though the lyrics are often painful cries of persecution, the tone of the music has evolved into joyfulness. After the groups toured together for six weeks and shared their life stories, they discovered a common thread that still ties them together. Through their laughter, music and generous spirit, it becomes obvious that though these people have traveled a long and winding road, their destination is one and the same.

Read the interview with cinematographer Albert Maysles.