ArtMattan Productions - Films and Videos about Africa and the African Diaspora
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Afro-Latino Music

Maluala - directed by Sergio Giral


This two-disc set showcases the influence and importance of African sounds, rhythms, and beats to the music of Latin America.



SONS OF BENKOS / LOS HIJOS DE BENKOS
(Lucas Silva, Colombia, 2003, 52 mins.)
Sons of Benkos shows the evolution of Afro-Colombian music over generations while exploring the presence of African culture in Colombia. The title pays homage to Benkos, an important black leader in the fight for freedom during the era of slavery in Colombia. The title "Sons of Benkos" suggests the ongoing struggle for the recognition of African influences on Colombia's artistic heritage.
Click here to watch the beginning of the film.

 

HANDS OF GOD / LAS MANOS DE DIOS
(Las Manos de Dios, Delia Ackerman, Peru, 2004, 54 mins.)

Hands of God
tells the story of Peruvian percussionist Julio "Chocolate" Algendones, a legendary musician famous for his speed and dexterity on drums. Mixing traditional African influences with contemporary jazz, Algendones composed, taught, and performed musical styles all over the world. "The stunning dexterity and mastery of famous Afro-Peruvian percussionist Julio 'Chocolate' Algendones are on display in this affectionate documentary [Hands of God] about the great master" (Allaboutjazz.com). In Spanish with English subtitles.
Watch a short documentary about "Chocolate" here as an introduction to the man and film Hands of God (in Spanish only).

Lucas Silva/Delia Ackerman---Colombia/Peru---2003/2004---106 mins.



2 DVD set sale: $295

Public libraries and K-12 DVD sale: $29.95

African Films
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