Review of Swing

Tony Gatlif himself has gypsie-blood flowing through his veins. He uses the medium film to bring a spark of the life that there is in all people who are or feel connected with gypsies. Their music is the essence of their life and tells more than words ever could. After staying in Andulacia in the world of flamenco (Vengo), Gatlif now pictures the 'manouche' in France. A little french boy (Max), staying with his grandmother during the summerholidays, is fascinated by the way 'manouche' guitar is played. He finds himself a music teacher and learns much more about the people he's suddenly surrounded by, than only how to play guitar... The 'actors' often just show their own life and tell their own history... and when they make music, it is spontaneously and real. This doesn't give the effect of a 'dull' documentary style, but makes the 'plot' look like an extra. Through the eyes and the heart and the openess of Max, you get to know these people who remind you of the fact that you are really 'alive' !

Thanks again Tony Gatlif !