Indestructible: The Soul of Salsa

Indestructible: The Soul of Salsa is a documentary film that takes viewers on a journey into the history and soul of the vibrant and pulsating salsa music genre. Directed by David Pareja, the movie features an impressive cast of musicians, singers, and dancers who share their personal stories and experiences with salsa, as well as their insights into the roots and evolution of this contagious music style.

The film revolves around the charismatic figure of Diego el Cigala, a celebrated flamenco singer from Spain who embarks on a musical pilgrimage to Cuba, the birthplace of salsa. Cigala is drawn to the island's musical culture and traditions, and he is keen to explore the connections and similarities between flamenco and salsa. As he travels through the streets of Havana, he meets and collaborates with a host of talented musicians and dancers who introduce him to the secrets and nuances of salsa.

The movie is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of salsa, from its African roots to its Caribbean flavor and its fusion with jazz and other music styles. Along the way, the film showcases some of the most iconic figures in salsa history, such as Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, and Machito, and highlights their contributions to the genre's development and popularity.

One of the most compelling aspects of Indestructible: The Soul of Salsa is the way it connects the music to the social and political history of Cuba and the United States. The film explores how salsa emerged as a cultural force in the 1960s and 1970s, when New York City was a melting pot of Latin American immigrants, African Americans, and other ethnic groups. The salsa scene in New York became a focal point for the civil rights movement, and the music served as a medium for cultural and political expression.

In addition to Cigala's narrative, the film features interviews and performances by other renowned musicians and dancers, such as Omara Portuondo, the legendary Cuban singer of the Buena Vista Social Club, and Jamie Calabuch, a renowned jazz pianist and composer. These artists share their insights into the magic and passion of salsa, and elaborate on their personal journeys and artistic inspirations.

The movie also includes dazzling performances by some of Cuba's best dancers, who showcase the sensuality, energy, and rhythm of salsa. Anya Bartels-Suermondt, a German dancer and choreographer who has worked extensively with Cuban dancers, provides an insightful commentary on the technical and cultural aspects of salsa, and how it has evolved over time.

Ultimately, Indestructible: The Soul of Salsa is a tribute to the enduring power and appeal of salsa, a vital and pulsating music style that has captured the hearts and souls of millions of people around the world. The film's rich and colorful visuals, coupled with its engaging interviews and dynamic music and dance performances, create a feast for the senses and a celebration of creativity and cultural exchange. For anyone who loves salsa, or who is curious about the history and soul of this vibrant genre, Indestructible is a must-see.