SXSW Film Reviews

Vengo

This celebration of the Gypsies of Spain blends documentary and narrative styles to create a unique film, one which uses a simple story to tell volumes about a culture often misunderstood by the masses. Vengo begins as a tale of remorse among rival families (both mourning recent deaths) and evolves into a cautionary tale of revenge as one family accuses the other of murder. Gatlif places much of the action among the townsfolk of Andalucia, often taking a break from the narrative to showcase the festive parties, singing, and dancing of the locals. These interludes (most of which are improvised) bring the characters to life, capturing the passion and anger that propels such artistic expression with vibrant visuals and a spirited flamenco soundtrack. This ethnographic study gives way to narrative development, building to a climax that resonates long after the credits roll. The two parts of the film might seem an unnatural fit at first, but the ultimate product is an unexpected commentary on machismo and temperance. (CC, 3/17, 9:45pm)