Most interviews and media regarding Gustavo Dudamel focus (justifiably enough) on his effervescent, positive personality and the joy with which he conducts - joy that transmits a passion for music into audiences and musicians. In Viva Maestro, you can still sense this joy as an integral part of his character. However, about 30 minutes into the documentary, the mood takes a turn based on the unforeseen events in Venezuela that happened shortly after the beginning of shooting. A somber and pensive mood fills the remaining hour, interspersed with moments of bittersweet warmth.
Viva Maestro is not simply a documentary about a conducting superstar. It's a story about El Sistema, the Venezuelan orchestras, and Gustavo's yearning to be a part of them again despite not being welcome in the country. His sadness is mixed with determination to continue using music to bring people together. It's about the desire to cause music to thrive, even in dark times.
I found the filming, editing, and especially the graphics to be skillfully done, allowing for a clear presentation of the events and story told. The choice of classical music pieces in the background of different sections was also done well.
Not everyone will find this documentary to be deep, certainly. But I was moved, enough moved that when I finished the documentary, I had to take an hour or so to think, to process. I would recommend giving this a watch, especially if you enjoy classical music or Dudamel's conducting.
