Movie Reviews

Harlem Aria

From the 1999 Toronto International Film Festival:

Starring: Gabriel Casseus, Christian Camargo, Damon Wayans, Malik Yoba, Edye Byrde. Directed and written by William Jennings.
 A surprisingly entertaining comedy of color. This is a must see movie of the year. Keep your fingers crossed that this gem gets US distribution. It has been picked up for International distribution, which only goes to enforce the theory that the US is sometimes a little behind in coming forward.
The theme line of a simple young man from Harlem wanting to be an opera singer sounded a little off center which is probably why Trixie and I thought it might be a flick to see. Strange as the movie line sounded, it worked from start to finish. The actors were outstanding in their appearances, and the story line was very thought provoking, showing what can be done when people follow their heart and dreams to fulfill their lives.
You'll laugh, you'll think, you will be inspired.
(Sheila Sept. 1999)

I can only add a little to Sheila's review - because I totally agree with her. This was my favorite movie of the festival and the one I chose for the Air Canada People's Choice award (which was won by "Life is Beautiful" last year.) First time director William Jennings also wrote this gem, showing a diversity of talent that is phenomenal. This is one director to keep an eye on.
The music was a very unconventional blend of hip-hop and opera (which will be on the soundtrack we were told) - and it worked surprisingly well. Which was a good thing since it's such a large part of the film. I found "Harlem Aria" to be a movie about the forming and growth of friendship as well as the pursuit of a dream. Very funny, (c'mon - it's Damon Wayans - what did you expect?) thought provoking and entertaining. I can't describe enough how wonderful this film was. It gave me chills. You just have to see it when it's in a theater near you.

(Trixie, Sept. 1999)

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