The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago

The movie The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago, released in 1977, is a gripping exploration of the immigrant experience, family bonds, cultural preservation and art as a means of catharsis. Directed by Jill Godmilow, the documentary film delves into the lives of the Popovich Brothers, a family of Serbian immigrants, who made a name in the heart of America through their deep-rooted music.

A rich tapestry of music, family, and heritage, the film begins by introducing us to the Popovich Brothers - Adam, Ted, and Eli, and their younger sister, Millie. Born in the small Serbian village of Kacer, the brothers came to the United States as little boys, settling in South Chicago, an area known for its vibrant immigrant culture. The brothers took to music early on, picking up traditional Serbian instruments and, almost instinctively, played music that resonated with their cultural lineage.

The film gives us an intimate glimpse of the Popovich’s world, effortlessly portraying them as musicians, but at the same time, as ordinary human beings with extraordinary stories to share. It offers an understanding of how music served not only as an integral part of their personal identity but also as a means of survival, a way for them to navigate the complexities of migrating from their motherland to America.

Within its 90-minute duration, The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago beautifully illustrates how the brothers used music as a bridge, linking their Serbian heritage with their new American identities. It was their shared love for music that not only kept their cultural roots alive but also allowed them to create a feeling of home in a foreign land.

A significant part of the film is dedicated to capturing the lively performances by the Popovich Brothers, both in private family gatherings and in public performances. It is in these scenes where film director Godmilow artfully uses the brothers' music to convey a sense of longing, struggle, and the joy they found in their shared musical heritage. Watching them play their music is like being transplanted straight to their old Serbian village, with its melancholic melodies and rhythmic beats. The songs are filled with poignant lyrics that carry a sense of nostalgia, recounting tales of their homeland, experiences of migration, and the inherent longing for home.

The documentary also highlights the impact of the Popovich Brothers on their community. The brothers get portrayed as cultural torchbearers who played pivotal roles in preserving and transmitting the music and heritage of their Serbian roots to the younger generations of immigrants in South Chicago. Not only did they perform at local events, but they also recorded albums, extending their influence beyond their immediate community and opening avenues for ethnic minority music in mainstream American society.

One of the film's many strengths is its ability to weave the personal narratives of the Popovich Brothers with the broader notions of immigration, cultural preservation, and the role of art in community formation. It raises critical questions surrounding identity, belonging, and artistic expression, providing a rich context to understand the socio-political experiences of immigrant populations.

The film’s cinematography is worth mentioning too. It does excellent work to capture the urban landscape, the South Chicago neighborhood, the bustling Serbian clubs where the brothers performed, and the intimate spaces of the Popovich family home.

In the end, The Popovich Brothers of South Chicago does a remarkable job in showcasing the cross-cultural dilemma of immigrant families and the role that art plays in retaining one's cultural identity. It stands testimony to the power of music as a source of resilience, unity, and celebration, and the unique narrative it can provide for distinctive cultures and their communities. Furthermore, it highlights how our identities can be deeply intertwined with our artistic expressions, emphasizing the universal language of music. This is a poignant, engaging, and deeply moving narrative that needs to be seen to be truly appreciated.