Paul Simon: Under African Skies

Paul Simon: Under African Skies is an inspirational and captivated documentary directed by Joe Berlinger that provides an insightful look into the heart of the recording process of Paul Simon's Graceland album and its political and cultural impact. The film features a number of interviews and performances with Paul Simon himself, as well as a variety of notable African artists like Hugh Masekela.

The 108-minute film recaps Simon's 1986 journey to South Africa, which led to the creation of one of the best-selling albums of all times - Graceland. The movie covers the significant impact that the cultural exchange had on Simon's music, alongside the intense controversy and criticism the tour endured from the anti-apartheid community.

The film opens with Simon returning to South Africa for a 25th anniversary reunion concert, a demonstration of the enduring power of music to bridge cultural divides. The narrative then shifts back to Simon's initial journey, where he travelled to Johannesburg to collaborate with South African musicians, introducing their vibrant musical style to the world. This move was pioneering and somewhat controversial, given the background of apartheid policy in South Africa at that time.

One of the South African artists that Paul collaborated with is Hugh Masekela, a renowned trumpeter, composer, and singer. The scenes of Simon and Masekela working together in the studio are some of the most intriguing of the film, providing an intimate glimpse into the creative process behind the Grammy-winning record.

The movie often juxtaposes the condemnation that Simon faced from anti-apartheid activists, who had imposed a cultural boycott on South Africa, with his artistic desires and obligations. It has interviews with leaders from both sides of the argument. Those who condemned Simon's decision accused him of, inadvertently or not, aping the apartheid regime by violating the boycott. Yet, Simon insisted that his motives were purely musical and that his collaboration was a celebration, not exploitation, of South African culture.

Throughout the film, director Joe Berlinger thoughtfully explores these differing perspectives. Scenes depicting Simon's deep musical bond with the South African artists humanize the controversy. This authentic portrayal of Simon's endeavor paints a nuanced picture, harmonizing the moral, political, and artistic quandaries that all plays out under the African skies.

Under African Skies not only allows fans a deeper insight into the making of Graceland's beloved tracks but also explores the broader consequences of global cultural collaborations. The film also examines how art can thrive even under political tension and societal strife and how it sometimes inadvertently becomes a symbol for the tension itself.

The documentary is filled with compelling interviews with musicians who worked on the album, celebrities who admire it, such as Oprah Winfrey, and political figures who lived through the apartheid era. In a particularly startling scene, Simon and Dali Tambo, co-founder of Artists Against Apartheid and the man who denounced Simon's visit in the 80s, meet for a conversation decades later. These differing perspectives are one of the most compelling aspects of the film, offering a nuanced look at a complex and controversial period in history.

Under African Skies is an invigorating and enlightening documentary that dares to grapple with complex social and political issues. The film is not just about the making of an album, but more crucially about the enduring power of music, the politics of cultural exchange, and the capacity of art to challenge and change our understanding of the world.

Through this documentary, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and bravery behind Simon's iconic album and the subsequent tour. The result is a film that is every bit as inspiring as the transformative music at its center. Under African Skies offers the audience a fascinating journey through music history, politics, and the human spirit’s resilience.

The film is a must-watch for any fan of Simon's music, anyone interested in the intersection of politics and culture, or anyone who simply enjoys a well-crafted documentary with compelling characters, layered narratives, and evocative music. Touching on themes of artistic integrity, political conflict, racial tension, and global unity, the film is an essential exploration of music's role in challenging times and its ability to transcend boundaries and bring people together.