alandolton

Based on a theatre show, this is a history of South African music and dance from traditional tribal rhythms to the beginning of the 21st century. It includes gumboot dancing, Sophiatown jazz, gospel music and modern kwaito. I really enjoyed the opening minutes of this show, which focus on tribal music and dancing. It features some very impressive (and loud) tribal drumming. When the theatre show on which the film is based first played in London, there were complaints from some residents of properties living close to the theatre who felt that the drumming was too loud. I also enjoyed the tribal dancing, although some readers may wish to know that these opening minutes include young women dancing in traditional costumes, ie with exposed breasts. Unfortunately, after this very fast-paced opening, the pace of the show does slow down a bit. I enjoyed most of the upbeat songs but was less keen on some of the slower numbers, particularly in the section showcasing gospel music. (I have nothing against gospel: one of my favourite songs is the late Brenda Fassie's gospel sone 'Soon and Very Soon', but a couple of the songs featured in 'Umoja' are too slow for my taste.) The film is also a valuable reminder of the hardships which South African blacks had to suffer in the years of apartheid. I definitely recommend it.

An entertaining and informative film about Josephine Baker, the well-known dancer who subsequently became a leading civil rights campaigner. Lynn Whitfield is quite a bit lighter-skinned than the real Josephine Baker, but she still gives an excellent performance (although the end credits do acknowledge the use of a 'dance double'). Understandably, the film does simplify some aspects of Josephine's life (particularly her complex private life). Louis Gossett and Ruben Blades are also excellent in supporting roles. One minor criticism (only added because my original wording was too short for IMDB) is that the film devotes a bit too much time to the notorious racist journalist and broadcaster Walter Winchell.