This documentary, nominated for an Oscar, tells the story of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the South African singing group that gained much acclaim worldwide after Paul Simon incorporated their sound and music on his "Graceland" album. At the time, what Simon did was controversial, as it was viewed by opponents of apartheid as a violation of the cultural boycott of South Africa in effect at the time. This always puzzled me, because in no way, shape or form can this be seen as a project that benefitted the government of South Africa, while it can be seen as being a great boost to blacks in South Africa in general and the group in particular. The documentary shows the group in rehearsal and in performance and the music is marvelous. It shows quite forcefully that even under conditions designed to crush the human spirit and rob it of dignity, those who would seek to do so overlook the incredible strength and resilience of the human spirit, heart and mind. Most highly recommended.
2 Reviews
A beautiful, moving experience
tdinan22 March 2001
This short film packs more emotion into 45+ minutes than most films pack into 145. The cinematography, editing, and audio of this film is as good as it gets. You'll immediately become a fan of Joseph Shabalala, the leader of the amazing Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the South African group best known for their incalculable contributions to Paul Simon's "Graceland" album in the mid-1980's. The beauty of this film, apart from the production values, lies in it's storytelling, transcending typical objectivity found all too often in documentaries similar in nature. As with all good documentaries, "On Tiptoe" takes you on a journey, making you feel as though you are side-by-side with the filmmakers. It is a journey you are likely never to forget.
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