This documentary really grows on you. As the story and the search begins, you slowly but surely get caught up in the narrative. For me the amazing part of this journey is the composure and serenity of Rodriguez himself. Despite the lack of recognition in his own country, he continued to lead a rich life filled with hope and creativity. Just looking at his 3 beautiful daughters is testament to this. The sound tracks are really wonderful and take you back to the 60s and 70s. Another interesting facet of this movie is the exploration of the overthrow of Apartheid. Many who embraced the music of Rodriquez were Africaaners who were looking for change and a better life for everyone in their country. You come out of this movie believing in a better world.
142 Reviews
Long lost gem. Lovely movie and a must for fans of Dylan-esque music
ajvi9921 July 2012
I caught this movie at an advanced screening at the UN during Mandela week and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the movie and even more enthralled to discover this long, lost gem of music. The movie revolves around an up-and-coming Rock'n'roller from the 70s who recorded two albums and then disappeared into obscurity. His music was lost in the US but by a strange coincidence becomes a cult hit in South Africa and becomes a symbol of rebellion for the underground white, anti-apartheid sub-culture. The documentary is a lovely journey of discovery of the south africans who try to find the roots of this enigma and re-discover his music. I won't spoil too much but for fans of Dylan like music, this might be a long, lost gem and music that perhaps, at least now, deserves more recognition and appreciation.
West LA Loves Sixto Rodriguez
djdavig5 August 2012
The Landmark Theatre in West LA is a tough crowd but they were laughing and crying and when it was over they were applauding. This is what movie magic is all about. I wandered in and was blown away. Where can I get the soundtrack?? Holy! Crap!!
Sixto is what Dylan could have been. That's right he's better than Bob. Better writer, better vocalist by tenfold. Unlike The Jester this guy never sold out and walked the talk until the bitter end.
I've always believed the world's best talent goes unrecognized most of the time but the story of Sixto Rodriguez puts that theory into the "true" category once and for all and I will never doubt it again. Please recognize this man's work! Hopefully his daughters will continue to work toward that end both in the USA and South Africa.
Sixto is what Dylan could have been. That's right he's better than Bob. Better writer, better vocalist by tenfold. Unlike The Jester this guy never sold out and walked the talk until the bitter end.
I've always believed the world's best talent goes unrecognized most of the time but the story of Sixto Rodriguez puts that theory into the "true" category once and for all and I will never doubt it again. Please recognize this man's work! Hopefully his daughters will continue to work toward that end both in the USA and South Africa.
Well worth your time...
BarbP45124 July 2012
This film was by far our favorite at the True/False Film Festival in Columbia Missouri this past spring.
The delights of "Searching for Sugar Man" are revealed along the way, as the story unspools over decades and continents. I BEG YOU to cover your eyes and ears if you happen to see a trailer at your local indie theater - the art of the trailer is apparently a lost one, and most of the surprises are spoiled in the promotion prepared for this film.
The director received a well-earned standing ovation at True/False, and wept - he and other directors said that T/F was the first audience of "real people" to see their respective films, apparently Sundance is peopled with "not real people"?
And be prepared to have the music playing in your head for some time to come.
The delights of "Searching for Sugar Man" are revealed along the way, as the story unspools over decades and continents. I BEG YOU to cover your eyes and ears if you happen to see a trailer at your local indie theater - the art of the trailer is apparently a lost one, and most of the surprises are spoiled in the promotion prepared for this film.
The director received a well-earned standing ovation at True/False, and wept - he and other directors said that T/F was the first audience of "real people" to see their respective films, apparently Sundance is peopled with "not real people"?
And be prepared to have the music playing in your head for some time to come.
One of the most bizarre true stories in the history of popular music
wizface6 February 2012
Who would know that an unknown album from an unknown artist in 1970 (Rodriguez) would become a huge phenomenon in South Africa? As big as say, Paul McCartney. Rodriguez himself was never aware of his huge success, as well as most other Americans. This film traces two hardcore fans as they trace clues around the globe trying to find out what happened to this man. Did he commit a gruesome suicide as rumors say? If so, when and where? Almost nothing was known of this mystery man. The film unfolds a story that cannot be believed by any party. Not the South Africans, nor the filmmakers, or any member of the Rodriquez family. A story that you would swear would not be possible in this day and age of digital communications.
A Must-See. Truly
CarpeDiemFilm6 November 2012
Rodriguez (Sugarman), is one of the greatest men I have ever known.
This isn't a review, at least I don't consider it one; I don't review on IMDb, and there's a good chance I never will; but I feel compelled to leave my experience and thoughts, though briefly, here.
I saw this movie today knowing nothing about the subject material or the man himself; after leaving the theatre into a dimming sunset I texted my friend "I have a new hero."
That is probably the greatest praise I have ever gave a film.
Soulful, touching, heartrending and uplifting, this film------ you cannot write this, you cannot make this up, it is a story of true brilliance and daunting inspiration. There is so much to commend, praise, remark about this movie... but honestly I don't want to cite any one thing because it would spoil the experience of watching the story unfold and the mystery of Sugarman being shaped weakened. The bottom line is: It is a story that is too real, poignant, and far-fetched to exist anywhere on a writer's board or in a screenplay; this is why documentaries will never die, and they will always have a reserved place in the realm of cinema, films of fiction and artistry just cannot pierce the depth that this one finds. It is one of the greatest documentaries I have ever seen, possibly the greatest.
I cried throughout the picture. A must-see.
I write this review with the intention that I hope to encourage others to go see this movie: If you do you won't regret it and if you see it years later on television, you'll regret you didn't take the chance when you had it.
This isn't a review, at least I don't consider it one; I don't review on IMDb, and there's a good chance I never will; but I feel compelled to leave my experience and thoughts, though briefly, here.
I saw this movie today knowing nothing about the subject material or the man himself; after leaving the theatre into a dimming sunset I texted my friend "I have a new hero."
That is probably the greatest praise I have ever gave a film.
Soulful, touching, heartrending and uplifting, this film------ you cannot write this, you cannot make this up, it is a story of true brilliance and daunting inspiration. There is so much to commend, praise, remark about this movie... but honestly I don't want to cite any one thing because it would spoil the experience of watching the story unfold and the mystery of Sugarman being shaped weakened. The bottom line is: It is a story that is too real, poignant, and far-fetched to exist anywhere on a writer's board or in a screenplay; this is why documentaries will never die, and they will always have a reserved place in the realm of cinema, films of fiction and artistry just cannot pierce the depth that this one finds. It is one of the greatest documentaries I have ever seen, possibly the greatest.
I cried throughout the picture. A must-see.
I write this review with the intention that I hope to encourage others to go see this movie: If you do you won't regret it and if you see it years later on television, you'll regret you didn't take the chance when you had it.
One Of the Best Films Of the Year
georgep5319 August 2012
I'm going to add my voice such as it is to the chorus of accolades for "Searching For Sugar Man". I loved it. It is indeed an incredible true story about a folk singer named Rodriquez who became a sensation in South Africa while remaining in obscurity in his native US. He's not the first person to be given the boot in his hometown (the Bible has something to say on this subject) but upon listening to the wonderful soundtrack of this film it is a sad commentary. There's plenty of humor here as well in this tale of parallel universes: one in which Rodriquez is Elvis and another where he's scarcely a blip on the radar. The film begins as an investigation by curious fans seeking to learn about the whereabouts of Rodriquez and what may have happened to him. The stories circulating about him are not promising but they are undaunted and continue to search for answers. I think everyone who sees "Searching For Sugar Man" will be thankful that they did.
By far THE BEST story I have every heard!!!
justagirldc2 October 2012
This movie is a MUST SEE. If you are a musician or songwriter and you have ever questioned the importance of what it is that you do, you need to see this film. This was the most inspiring thing I have ever seen. Aside from the unbelievable story, the cinematography had some very great moments and not to mention a stellar sound track. I am recommending this film to everyone I know. The only drawback is that because it is an indie film, it is very hard to find. It is only playing in one theater in my area (DC), and that's West End. I really hope this films picks up and begins showing in more theaters. Until then, I will continue to promote this film via word of mouth because I believe in it so much. ...Amazing things happen.
Moving documentary plays fast and loose with the cold facts
guyau-399-683721 January 2013
Talented Detroit troubadour could have been a star, but his 1970s albums fail to sell and he is consigned to a life of obscurity and hard labor, until rediscovered by millions of adoring fans he never knew he had. This is inspiring stuff, a moving feel-good movie with a detective plot, as a record store owner and a journalist hunt down the enigmatic Rodriguez, whose album Cold Fact made him an anonymous superstar in South Africa.
This is a great piece of manipulative filmmaking, but as a documentary it asks more questions than it answers, and never lets the facts stand in the way of a good story. First up we are told Rodriguez was more famous than the Rolling Stones in South Africa, artistically his only peer was Bob Dylan, and he was a leading inspiration in the struggle against apartheid. Come on. Really? Then, based on unsubstantiated guesstimates from "half a million" to "millions" of album sales, the film asks where the royalties went, but doesn't follow through. They interview Rodriguez, who surely could have answered this question, along with many others, but we see little of the man himself, except for wistful shots of him looking out a window, while his daughters and the South Africans do most of the talking.
I wanted to see Rodriguez, but this becomes more a story of the South Africans and their feeble attempts to track him down. These included putting his picture on milk cartons and spreading rumors of his self-immolation on stage, which sounded more like attempts to promote the myth ahead of his tours of South Africa. Also, the movie implies Rodriguez was unheard of outside South Africa, but Cold Fact was also popular in Australia, where Rodriguez toured in the late 70s and then with Midnight Oil. I know, I was a fan and had a copy of the album, as did most of my friends. We are also told he survived his life after music by working as a demolition man. Nice hard luck story, but an internet search reveals he was also a teacher and social worker, and the movie quickly passes over his graduation from university.
Rodriguez was a unique talent, I loved his music, and this film does a great job of giving this humble man the recognition he deserves. It is a moving cinema experience and well worth seeing, but this is faction as much as fact, which is carefully excised to fit the myth.
This is a great piece of manipulative filmmaking, but as a documentary it asks more questions than it answers, and never lets the facts stand in the way of a good story. First up we are told Rodriguez was more famous than the Rolling Stones in South Africa, artistically his only peer was Bob Dylan, and he was a leading inspiration in the struggle against apartheid. Come on. Really? Then, based on unsubstantiated guesstimates from "half a million" to "millions" of album sales, the film asks where the royalties went, but doesn't follow through. They interview Rodriguez, who surely could have answered this question, along with many others, but we see little of the man himself, except for wistful shots of him looking out a window, while his daughters and the South Africans do most of the talking.
I wanted to see Rodriguez, but this becomes more a story of the South Africans and their feeble attempts to track him down. These included putting his picture on milk cartons and spreading rumors of his self-immolation on stage, which sounded more like attempts to promote the myth ahead of his tours of South Africa. Also, the movie implies Rodriguez was unheard of outside South Africa, but Cold Fact was also popular in Australia, where Rodriguez toured in the late 70s and then with Midnight Oil. I know, I was a fan and had a copy of the album, as did most of my friends. We are also told he survived his life after music by working as a demolition man. Nice hard luck story, but an internet search reveals he was also a teacher and social worker, and the movie quickly passes over his graduation from university.
Rodriguez was a unique talent, I loved his music, and this film does a great job of giving this humble man the recognition he deserves. It is a moving cinema experience and well worth seeing, but this is faction as much as fact, which is carefully excised to fit the myth.
Touching but ...
akeslocum131 August 2012
While "Searching for Sugar Man" is, more than anything else, unquestionably a testament to Rodriguez's craft and humility, it is frankly manipulative to suggest that he had no popularity anywhere but South Africa. I have personal memories of "Cold Fact" being an integral part of the musical soundscape in Australia during the early to mid 70's, particularly in the surfing community, and he was popular there before he caught on in South Africa. He actually toured Australia in 1979, and in 1981 he opened for Midnight Oil on their Australian tour. The message of Rodriguez's musical journey is undeniable but the filmmakers' omission of facts to make a sensational story even more sensational, is crass.
A nice subject doesn't make a nice documentary
baptouille24 June 2013
Honestly i felt a little abused by this Documentary. I think the story is great, it is a very nice subject with a very large panel of possible angles, directions. And what we have here is a succession of clichés, fanatics that keeps telling that everything was "the best thing of their life", that Rodriguez arrived on earth to play the best music of humanity, to save a country... Catchy screen effects, unnecessary romantic descriptions, dramatic silences in the middle of testimonials...
I think it is sad, because once again i think this is a very interesting and colorful story, but completely ruined by the choice of making a superhero movie out of it. I don't think it needed that.
I think it is sad, because once again i think this is a very interesting and colorful story, but completely ruined by the choice of making a superhero movie out of it. I don't think it needed that.
one of the best music docs ever made
hjalmar-palmgren-433-26899626 July 2012
This is one of the best music docs ever made! The story about Sixto Rodriguez misfortunes and fortunes is almost to good to be true. It's like a fairy tale, only that this is real life. Swedish film maker Malik Bendjelloul treats the story with great respect and construct the film in a way almost like a thriller without a dead second and the end will not leave a single eye dry. Cinematographer Camilla Skagerstrom made an excellent job in creating a beautiful movie and the music (all by Rodriguez)makes a great soundtrack and it is hard to believe that this musical treasure was forgotten for so many years. Not only is this a strong personal portrait of a grate musician but it also makes you wonder about the mechanics of fame, success and the music industry.
Searching for Sixto
ferguson-626 August 2012
Greetings again from the darkness. I make no apologies for my tendency to have higher expectations and be more demanding of documentaries than other films. When dealing with a real subject, event or person, there is no place for fabrication or embellishment. The truth must stand (and entertain) on its own. Filmmaker Malik Bendjelloul has no such issue given his fascinating, almost jaw-dropping story of musician Sixto Rodriguez.
Described as Dylan-esque, Rodriguez was a folk singer and songwriter who put out two albums: Cold Fact (1970) and Comng from Reality (1971). Despite critical raves, the album sales were minimal and Sussex/A&R dropped him. After that, the story got a bit hazy. Urban Legend had Rodriguez dousing himself with gasoline while onstage, and committing suicide by lighting himself up. Mostly he just seemed to disappear, not simply fade away.
Nearly incomprehensible in today's age of internet communication, the Rodriguez songs became anthems for the anti-apartheid whites in South Africa. The music reached the country through bootleg copies and the popularity grew. We meet a Cape Town record store owner and indie music supporter names Stephen Segerman who describes Rodriguez as "bigger than Elvis" in South Africa. In the late 1990's a world wide web manhunt began.
What happens after that ... I will leave it to the film. Just know that this documentary is a blend of Mystery, Intrigue, Urban Legend, Who-done-it, and Where are they now? There is a brief interview with Clarence Avant, the owner of now-defunct Sussex Records, during which he provides the only real insight into the music industry underbelly. Additionally, so much of the story goes unexplained. So many questions unanswered ... even unasked! However, the story itself, and Rodriguez the man, are so amazing, that the entertainment and intellectual value of the film remains intact.
Since the vast majority (99% plus) of us have never previously heard of Rodriguez, the film does a nice job of integrating his songs in a manner that allows us to get a real understanding for the musical genius and why the critics (and South Africa) fell hard for it. This is a fascinating story and captivating film, despite lacking in "the rest of the story" department.
Described as Dylan-esque, Rodriguez was a folk singer and songwriter who put out two albums: Cold Fact (1970) and Comng from Reality (1971). Despite critical raves, the album sales were minimal and Sussex/A&R dropped him. After that, the story got a bit hazy. Urban Legend had Rodriguez dousing himself with gasoline while onstage, and committing suicide by lighting himself up. Mostly he just seemed to disappear, not simply fade away.
Nearly incomprehensible in today's age of internet communication, the Rodriguez songs became anthems for the anti-apartheid whites in South Africa. The music reached the country through bootleg copies and the popularity grew. We meet a Cape Town record store owner and indie music supporter names Stephen Segerman who describes Rodriguez as "bigger than Elvis" in South Africa. In the late 1990's a world wide web manhunt began.
What happens after that ... I will leave it to the film. Just know that this documentary is a blend of Mystery, Intrigue, Urban Legend, Who-done-it, and Where are they now? There is a brief interview with Clarence Avant, the owner of now-defunct Sussex Records, during which he provides the only real insight into the music industry underbelly. Additionally, so much of the story goes unexplained. So many questions unanswered ... even unasked! However, the story itself, and Rodriguez the man, are so amazing, that the entertainment and intellectual value of the film remains intact.
Since the vast majority (99% plus) of us have never previously heard of Rodriguez, the film does a nice job of integrating his songs in a manner that allows us to get a real understanding for the musical genius and why the critics (and South Africa) fell hard for it. This is a fascinating story and captivating film, despite lacking in "the rest of the story" department.
Searching for Sugar Man
lasttimeisaw29 July 2012
A KVIFF viewing of this demystifying documentary of a miracle would never find a copycat in the digital-era, Rodriguez "The Sugar Man", an American minstrel in the 1970s who has sold a sensational figure of records in South Africa while being exclusively oblivious in USA, and when rumor says he died in a suicide attempt while performing it on stage, the story seems to reach its cul-de-sac. But two South Africans, take the onerous task to dig out the mystery behind (including the director himself), and eventually the truth has been disclosed in a quite satisfying way both on screen and off screen.
First of all, Rodriguez's songs (from his albums COLD FACT 1970, COMING FROM REALITY 1971, and a piece from his never-released third album) have prevailed in the entire film's narrative, which after a first-time listening, feels more affinity with Bob Dylan's Folk Rock tunes, most of which pertain to lower-class or working-class self-inspection, definitely have their own mark of time.
The poignancy has been simmered halfway through when the story has a dramatic twist and leads to the second half of the film into a different angle of revelation, an enigmatic fetish figure's condescendence into the real world. And a poetic license has to be introduced to his personal life as de-iconization is always a tough call to make.
Then, about what prompted Rodriguez's case so unique? The film seems to be a bit withdrawn in unraveling the real reason behind it (a deliberate conspiracy theory is never in the picture), indeed, even there were merely 40 years before, we already have forgotten how things stand at then, and this could be a scarier discovery.
By the way, the film has a very audience-friendly approach, and if you are a music enthusiast, this film will be a delectable choice to be enchanted by the pure magic of music.
First of all, Rodriguez's songs (from his albums COLD FACT 1970, COMING FROM REALITY 1971, and a piece from his never-released third album) have prevailed in the entire film's narrative, which after a first-time listening, feels more affinity with Bob Dylan's Folk Rock tunes, most of which pertain to lower-class or working-class self-inspection, definitely have their own mark of time.
The poignancy has been simmered halfway through when the story has a dramatic twist and leads to the second half of the film into a different angle of revelation, an enigmatic fetish figure's condescendence into the real world. And a poetic license has to be introduced to his personal life as de-iconization is always a tough call to make.
Then, about what prompted Rodriguez's case so unique? The film seems to be a bit withdrawn in unraveling the real reason behind it (a deliberate conspiracy theory is never in the picture), indeed, even there were merely 40 years before, we already have forgotten how things stand at then, and this could be a scarier discovery.
By the way, the film has a very audience-friendly approach, and if you are a music enthusiast, this film will be a delectable choice to be enchanted by the pure magic of music.
A story of the search of a great musician lost in the distant and in time.
luisfveloz30 December 2012
This is my very first review, about an amazing, amazing story, worth writing a first review, It's about the search of a guitar player known as Rodriguez, who in the 70's with only two albums, apparently He doesn't have any success in the U.S. but unknowingly he is huge in South Africa, it is a story full of hope, almost like a fairy tale, but still a documentary, so it makes it even more unbelievable, the storyline is well done, the editing places the pieces correctly, building expectation, making the viewer a part of it, interviewing the right people, unveiling the nature of the humankind, the photography is beautiful and the use some amateur footage, combines to ensure the historical value, delivering a well crafted movie, that you won't forget. highly recommended.
Interesting but lacking in depth.
mao-5415 April 2013
OK. I was not familiar with Rodriguez before this doc. He has some interesting tunes, some with very poetic lyrics and an interesting voice -no doubt he was talented. To place him in any league with Bob Dylan is a major stretch. There's a lot of gaps in the man's history that, for some reason, the writers didn't want to cover: how he got to the States, his wives, did he have a drug problem, why did he quit performing...? Why weren't any of the S. African distributors asked if they had their canceled checks or receipts from Sussex Records? Why was the live concert footage absolutely horrific when Rodriguez performed many times after being "found"? There's also no mention of any attempt of Rodriguez to follow up the original early '70s album releases with any performances. Why not keep going? Many artists fail for many years, but they keep at it. Something happened that is not talked about. It's an interesting story, but there are too many gaps and non-disclosures for me personally.
amazing story
blanche-21 February 2013
"Searching for Sugar Man" is a 2012 documentary about Sixto Rodriguez, a musical artist from the late '60s and early '70s whose records never sold; he was dropped by his record label and subsequently disappeared.
While Rodriguez, who hailed from Detroit, was a big nobody in the rest of the world, it turns out that his music was huge in South Africa, and even though some songs were banned, his albums Cold Fact and Coming from Reality sold in big numbers. He became the voice of Apartheid and was an influence on many musicians there.
Swedish director Malik Bendjelloul tells the story of two South African fans trying to find out if Rodriguez had indeed killed himself after a concert, as was rumored, and if it wasn't, what had happened to him.
Though Rodriguez is somewhat similar to Dylan, his lyrics, to me anyway, are far more spectacular, the work of a true poet. How he escaped recognition is beyond me. Also beyond me is where all the money is from those half million or so albums that were sold. Strange - no one seems to know.
"Searching for Sugar Man" is a wonderful story, well told in this documentary, of the search for this talented artist. It moves quickly but packs a wallop. It is well deserving of all the awards it has won. And the music and messages of Sixto Rodriguez deserve to be heard.
While Rodriguez, who hailed from Detroit, was a big nobody in the rest of the world, it turns out that his music was huge in South Africa, and even though some songs were banned, his albums Cold Fact and Coming from Reality sold in big numbers. He became the voice of Apartheid and was an influence on many musicians there.
Swedish director Malik Bendjelloul tells the story of two South African fans trying to find out if Rodriguez had indeed killed himself after a concert, as was rumored, and if it wasn't, what had happened to him.
Though Rodriguez is somewhat similar to Dylan, his lyrics, to me anyway, are far more spectacular, the work of a true poet. How he escaped recognition is beyond me. Also beyond me is where all the money is from those half million or so albums that were sold. Strange - no one seems to know.
"Searching for Sugar Man" is a wonderful story, well told in this documentary, of the search for this talented artist. It moves quickly but packs a wallop. It is well deserving of all the awards it has won. And the music and messages of Sixto Rodriguez deserve to be heard.
My favorite documentary of the year!
estebangonzalez1017 February 2013
¨An obstacle is an inspiration.¨
Searching for Sugar Man is by far the best documentary I've seen this year and one of my all time favorites. Swedish director, Malik Bendjelloul, who has been known for producing musical documentaries brings us a fascinating story full of mystery and reminds us how easy it is for great talents to go unrecognized at times. I was completely hooked with this gripping story from the very beginning and wondered what had happened to this 70's rocker that influenced South Africa in such a big way during the Apartheid. The documentary has some unexpected payoffs halfway through the film and some unbelievable twists. The soundtrack is also amazing and contributes even more to the mysterious factor as to how someone so talented was completely ignored in the United States. One of the producers claimed that in America he was zero, in South Africa a hero. The name of this mysterious man is Sixto Rodriguez, who in 1970 created an album that revolutionized South Africa during the oppressive regime. It was a soundtrack to their lives and millions identified with the powerful antiestablishment lyrics of his song, but no one knew anything about this man who was more famous than Elvis Presley in their country. As I listened to his songs in the soundtrack, I couldn't even believe I hadn't heard of this man before. Bendjelloul directed this wonderful film in a very gripping and mysterious way making Rodriguez even more mystical than he already was. This is one great detective story, or as they call it in the documentary musicologist detective story. The film was also beautifully shot, drifting from images of Detroit (Rodriguez's hometown) to others in Cape Town where we see the contrast of this man's fame. This documentary is worth checking out for the powerful and emotional story alone. It is better than most thrillers I've seen lately.
The documentary begins with the narration of a South African named Stephen Segerman, who has been nicknamed Sugar for a well known song in the 70's known as Sugar Man. As he speaks and tells us the story of this mysterious musician who everyone in South Africa has heard about, we can hear the song playing in the background. Segerman explains the significance that his music had during the apartheid in South Africa where the government was controlling the information from the outside world. Somehow a bootleg from Rodriguez's 1970 album, Cold Fact, made its way to Cape Town and became an instant success selling over half a million copies in that country. Rodriguez became a rebel icon and his music influenced the underground movement, but no one knew anything about this man. Unlike other successful rockers, nobody knew who this man really was and an air of mystery surrounded this man. Several tragic stories were told about his grotesque suicide, some claimed he set himself on fire in a concert and others that he shot himself in the head during another presentation. Rodriguez became a legend in South Africa, but no one really knew anything else about this man. That is where Segerman comes in as he begins to search for clues and information about his past. By listening closely to the lyrics he begins discovering some clues as to where this man might have lived, and so the detective story begins with some thrilling discoveries. Segerman finally discovers and interviews some of the producers of his two albums who all seem to agree that Rodriguez should have been a star because of his great lyrics, but somehow his albums never sold. Some even claimed he was better than Bob Dylan. Segerman shows the contrast of how affecting his music was in South Africa, and how nonexistent it was in America. His investigations will lead to some surprising discoveries along the way.
The way in which Segerman begins to solve the mystery of Rodriguez's life is what makes this detective story so interesting and gripping. There are some great discoveries along the way as we listen in the background to several of his songs, which I absolutely enjoyed. It made me want to buy the album. The mystery surrounding this man's grotesque death made this even more dramatic and thrilling to watch. Who would have ever thought that a musicologist detective story would be so interesting? What made this documentary even more dramatic was the fact that this man had never realized how his music impacted another country the way it did. But then what seemed to be the ending of one story ended up being the beginning of an even better one. I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to give anything away, but the payoff is incredible. The search and hunt for Rodriguez pays off in the end with some incredible discoveries. Searching for Sugar Man is a grandiose story and one worth seeing.
http://estebueno10.blogspot.com/
Searching for Sugar Man is by far the best documentary I've seen this year and one of my all time favorites. Swedish director, Malik Bendjelloul, who has been known for producing musical documentaries brings us a fascinating story full of mystery and reminds us how easy it is for great talents to go unrecognized at times. I was completely hooked with this gripping story from the very beginning and wondered what had happened to this 70's rocker that influenced South Africa in such a big way during the Apartheid. The documentary has some unexpected payoffs halfway through the film and some unbelievable twists. The soundtrack is also amazing and contributes even more to the mysterious factor as to how someone so talented was completely ignored in the United States. One of the producers claimed that in America he was zero, in South Africa a hero. The name of this mysterious man is Sixto Rodriguez, who in 1970 created an album that revolutionized South Africa during the oppressive regime. It was a soundtrack to their lives and millions identified with the powerful antiestablishment lyrics of his song, but no one knew anything about this man who was more famous than Elvis Presley in their country. As I listened to his songs in the soundtrack, I couldn't even believe I hadn't heard of this man before. Bendjelloul directed this wonderful film in a very gripping and mysterious way making Rodriguez even more mystical than he already was. This is one great detective story, or as they call it in the documentary musicologist detective story. The film was also beautifully shot, drifting from images of Detroit (Rodriguez's hometown) to others in Cape Town where we see the contrast of this man's fame. This documentary is worth checking out for the powerful and emotional story alone. It is better than most thrillers I've seen lately.
The documentary begins with the narration of a South African named Stephen Segerman, who has been nicknamed Sugar for a well known song in the 70's known as Sugar Man. As he speaks and tells us the story of this mysterious musician who everyone in South Africa has heard about, we can hear the song playing in the background. Segerman explains the significance that his music had during the apartheid in South Africa where the government was controlling the information from the outside world. Somehow a bootleg from Rodriguez's 1970 album, Cold Fact, made its way to Cape Town and became an instant success selling over half a million copies in that country. Rodriguez became a rebel icon and his music influenced the underground movement, but no one knew anything about this man. Unlike other successful rockers, nobody knew who this man really was and an air of mystery surrounded this man. Several tragic stories were told about his grotesque suicide, some claimed he set himself on fire in a concert and others that he shot himself in the head during another presentation. Rodriguez became a legend in South Africa, but no one really knew anything else about this man. That is where Segerman comes in as he begins to search for clues and information about his past. By listening closely to the lyrics he begins discovering some clues as to where this man might have lived, and so the detective story begins with some thrilling discoveries. Segerman finally discovers and interviews some of the producers of his two albums who all seem to agree that Rodriguez should have been a star because of his great lyrics, but somehow his albums never sold. Some even claimed he was better than Bob Dylan. Segerman shows the contrast of how affecting his music was in South Africa, and how nonexistent it was in America. His investigations will lead to some surprising discoveries along the way.
The way in which Segerman begins to solve the mystery of Rodriguez's life is what makes this detective story so interesting and gripping. There are some great discoveries along the way as we listen in the background to several of his songs, which I absolutely enjoyed. It made me want to buy the album. The mystery surrounding this man's grotesque death made this even more dramatic and thrilling to watch. Who would have ever thought that a musicologist detective story would be so interesting? What made this documentary even more dramatic was the fact that this man had never realized how his music impacted another country the way it did. But then what seemed to be the ending of one story ended up being the beginning of an even better one. I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to give anything away, but the payoff is incredible. The search and hunt for Rodriguez pays off in the end with some incredible discoveries. Searching for Sugar Man is a grandiose story and one worth seeing.
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Amazing story
andreas_vilic12 August 2013
Just amazing movie! Sometimes it is hard to really know people that you know for years, but when I look at Rodriguez I see the true honesty and good intentions like all the people should be. All the best Sixto!!! Well I would stop now, but I have to write ten lines to make the point, so let's write about the music. I heard the music from my new friend Guilermo from Spain and he and his family told me that I have to watch this movie and they were playing Rodrigez songs every day while we were sailing on the boat. So in my point of view, I have made friends for live and I must say that the music that anyone listen to does effect the character very much. This music is just heavenly. Once again thank you for making this movie, because now we can enjoy it in Europe as well.
'A Story To Strange To Be True'
patsworld17 June 2013
I found this film to be jaw-dropping engrossing. There are hardly words to express how much I love this movie. The strange story of Rodriguez, a guitar-playing writer and singer of heart-felt songs, the disappointment, the surprises, is nothing short of captivating. This picture of a brilliant musician who was thought to be dead, but in actuality is still alive and living in Detroit, Michigan is breath-taking. What this man and his music unknowingly did for Apartheid in South Africa, the hope, the strength to fight against an unjust authority that it brought to millions alone is mind-blowing. To discover that he was a super hero, bigger than Elvis, larger that the Rolling Stones, more important than any music star at the time in other parts of the world and yet completely unknown here in America is more than incredible, it's astonishing. I'll tell you, I've never wanted to have been at a concert as much as I do the Rodriguez Concert of March 6, 1998 in South Africa. Not ever! The scenes from that event truly brought tears to my eyes. If you have any interest in music, in the magic what can happen if it's seriously sought, do not miss this picture. For the amazing music alone, this is a treasure not to be missed! If ever I was happy I bought a DVD, it's right now. And it's this movie!
Appropriately Warm, Fuzzy and Appealing, it Feels Stretched and Over-Analyzed
drqshadow-reviews15 January 2013
Thirty years removed from the distribution of his last record, a small group of dedicated fans seek the truth behind the mysterious singer-songwriter known as Rodriguez. Though his career was little more than a hiccup on his native American turf, it resonated with the oppressed majority in South Africa. There he's become a legendary figure; the myth of Rodriguez is larger than life, complete with multiple urban legends which debate the nature of his untimely demise. Wonderfully produced, with gorgeous transitions and an artist's sense of composition, the material and its resolution left me underwhelmed. No matter how many times the narrators try to compare Rodriguez to the heavyweights of his era - Dylan, the Stones, Elvis - I just can't hear what they're hearing, and that makes the magnitude of his story harder to appreciate. It's an entertaining yarn, with a good twist or two up its sleeve, but too often I felt like it was belaboring a point in lieu of additional substance. Light viewing with a penetrating warmth and a catchy soundtrack.
Everything a superb documentary should be
diane-3419 March 2013
We watched this absolutely remarkable documentary in Fremantle yesterday and both of us commented as we left the theatre that this film would stay in our minds for a long time. Diane is not as great a fan of documentaries as I am so this comment coming from her says much about the emotional impact of this film.
I knew nothing of the film except the film notes and the bit that interested me was the idea of there being a forgotten musical genius from the 70s. That intrigued me but the film was even more than just about a performer that time passed; it was a fascinating detective mystery about the search for this guy which was about half the film.
I have read some of the negative comments from IMDb readers who say that the producers built up the story unfairly; the guy had a strong following here in Australia and not just in South Africa but I not accept this idea because I thought the producers had enough trouble tracing Rodriguez from South Africa without throwing in another distant country to boot.
This film is about a guy who had: great talent, a humble background (with all that entails in terms of career boosting), an introspective personality and bad luck from so-called business supporters. Do yourself a favour and search for the film in any form; it is truly worth it!
I knew nothing of the film except the film notes and the bit that interested me was the idea of there being a forgotten musical genius from the 70s. That intrigued me but the film was even more than just about a performer that time passed; it was a fascinating detective mystery about the search for this guy which was about half the film.
I have read some of the negative comments from IMDb readers who say that the producers built up the story unfairly; the guy had a strong following here in Australia and not just in South Africa but I not accept this idea because I thought the producers had enough trouble tracing Rodriguez from South Africa without throwing in another distant country to boot.
This film is about a guy who had: great talent, a humble background (with all that entails in terms of career boosting), an introspective personality and bad luck from so-called business supporters. Do yourself a favour and search for the film in any form; it is truly worth it!
Will the Truth Out?
robinski345 June 2014
Intriguing documentary about the apparent suicide of singer song-writer Rodriguez, Searching for Sugar Man is an enjoyable yarn that draws the viewer in with the promise of a mystery that is well set up by director and joint writer Malik Bendjelloul. A deeply analytical approach might lead to the viewer asking questions about the set up, but it's more pleasurable to go along for the ride, enjoy excellent cinematography, and be drawn into an effective travelogue that includes an interesting introductory portrait of Detroit. The early mythology seems almost too perfectly bohemian to be real, but suspend any disbelief that you feel, it is worth it to follow through this engagingly simple story about dreams and their realisation (or not).
Given that the story has played out, there is occasionally a slightly manufactured feel in places, but that can be excused because of the rich musical fabric that holds the piece together. It may be strange not to mention the music before now, but without Rodriguez's excellent songs, this story would be an attempt to make something out of nothing. Whatever you think about the conclusion, most people would find this a rewarding and satisfying portrait of a man who was on a search of his own.
Given that the story has played out, there is occasionally a slightly manufactured feel in places, but that can be excused because of the rich musical fabric that holds the piece together. It may be strange not to mention the music before now, but without Rodriguez's excellent songs, this story would be an attempt to make something out of nothing. Whatever you think about the conclusion, most people would find this a rewarding and satisfying portrait of a man who was on a search of his own.
What a dishonest work of fiction this movie is.
rcubed88-110 January 2015
What a work of fiction this movie is. Rodriquez was well known in Australia in mid seventies, due to exposure by DJ Holger Brockman on Sydney's 2JJ. Rodriguez had gained a strong foothold in Australia - a phenomenon that was mirrored in South Africa's apartheid a little later. with 4 LPs published by Blue Goose.
In 1979 his hidden fame was finally revealed to him.
He was invited to tour Australia and, to his great surprise, he played to packed houses.
As he told ABC Radio 702 Breakfast this week: "Australia was the first one to pick me up ... I came and I did fifteen shows."
"Australia was the highpoint in my career," he said.
"We did the Regent Theatre (Sydney), a 2,000-seater."
"We sold out four nights and it was half full for the fifth ... and that was my first time in Sydney."
The 'Rodriquez Alive' LP was put out.
He was never 'lost'. He simply gave up on the music industry and went to university to do a business degree and got involved in local politics.
In 1979 his hidden fame was finally revealed to him.
He was invited to tour Australia and, to his great surprise, he played to packed houses.
As he told ABC Radio 702 Breakfast this week: "Australia was the first one to pick me up ... I came and I did fifteen shows."
"Australia was the highpoint in my career," he said.
"We did the Regent Theatre (Sydney), a 2,000-seater."
"We sold out four nights and it was half full for the fifth ... and that was my first time in Sydney."
The 'Rodriquez Alive' LP was put out.
He was never 'lost'. He simply gave up on the music industry and went to university to do a business degree and got involved in local politics.
Great movie of a great story
b4624 August 2012
By far, the most outstanding movie I've seen in years, based on an even more outstanding story! Perhaps second only to "An Inconvenient Truth" which changed my life, best documentary ever. I was really taken by the recent bio-flicks on Phil Ochs/I became a huge fan, and Nilsson/became a fan, but not like this! I've already seen it twice and follow the fan website every day. I tried to clue in my friends to getting on board early/now: like seeing the Beatles in Germany or the Cavern Club. On my second viewing, I tuned into how visually beautiful, in cinematography and photography it was. Many viewers already knew about the decided story line twist which occurs part way through, and it's no great tragedy if you find out. But it's more fun if you go in blank.
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