Synopsis
Inspired by an exclusive interview and performance footage of Chavela Vargas shot in 1991 and guided by her unique voice, the film weaves an arresting portrait of a woman who dared to dress, speak, sing, and dream her unique life into being.
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Cast
- Chavela VargasHerself (archive footage)
- Pedro AlmodóvarHimself
- Miguel BoséHimself
- MartirioHimself
- Laura García LorcaHerself
- Eugenia LeónHerself
- Jesusa RodríguezHerself
- Tania LibertadHerself
- Marcela RodríguezHerself
- José Alfredo Jimenez Jr.Himself
Recommendations
- 90
TheWrap
The captivating documentary Chavela, directed by Catherine Gund (“Born to Fly”) and Daresha Kyi, mesmerizes with its impressionistic blend of archival photos, musical performances, concert footage and candid interviews with the legendary singer herself, as well with her ardent friends like Pedro Almodóvar and former lovers. - 80
Los Angeles Times
Celebrating a great ranchera interpreter without sugarcoating her, this straightforward film honors her approach. - 75
Chicago Tribune
More than a female singing cowboy, Vargas was ranchera incarnate, whether singing the material of drinking companion Jose Alfredo Jimenez or her own cathartic cries from the heart. The film is a fond but clear-eyed tribute. - 75
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)
The story is simply told: the rise, fall and comeback of a lesbian trailblazer and soul-crushed singer. Chavela the person is more fascinating than Chavela the film – a tequila-sunrise love letter to an unknown icon. - 67
Austin Chronicle
A well-chosen collection of friends and former lovers provides reminiscences that flesh out Chavela’s challenging personality. However, the documentary provides scant information about the challenges Chavela faced in her career. - 63
Slant Magazine
The film's hopscotching-in-time structure, informed by specific remembrances of Chavela Vargas's life, is refreshingly unconventional. - 63
RogerEbert.com
The film is too ordinary to feel like it does her legacy complete artistic justice. - 63
Washington Post
The result is a solid if conventional bio.
