1973
Directed by Perry Henzell
I fully expected to dislike this movie, since we have been stuck with so many bores lately. However, I was pleasantly surprised by this film and once again, the Book helps me discover another gem I never would have found otherwise.
Jimmy Cliff stars as a poor Jamaican man named Ivanhoe Martin who dreams of making it big as a reggae singer. He is able to get a song produced, but is only paid $20. In order to make money, he starts to deal marijuana. Just as you start to write this off as another disillusionment of a dreamer story, Ivanhoe gets a little knife happy. And a lot gun happy.
The soundtrack of this film is absolutely fantastic; I was smiling as soon as the first song started playing. I wish I could comment more on the last scene, but I have a no spoiler rule. All I will say is the main character is pretty fascinating; he honestly sees himself as a hero.
Worth checking out just to see people dance to reggae music. It's about as awkward as one would expect.
RATING: ****-
Interesting Facts:
First Jamaican feature film.
The language in this movie is Jamaican Patois, which can be understood somewhat by English speakers.
