Flamenco DVD Review:

Flamenco is more of a drama documentary than narrative film; a group of people come together and then take it in turns to express themselves through various traditional and modern Spanish song and dance routines. These people are made up of the most famous figures in Spanish flamenco and song, fusing together traditional and contemporary styles, each one getting their own segment.

This film is perfect as background music or visuals. Something a person can pick-up and watch switching in-and-out, as it doesn't follow a plot, and get encapsulated in the moment. Perhaps one of the most powerful sections of this piece is Joaquin Cortes' Farruca; a piece where he majestically dances topless, once again against one of Saura's dark powerful backgrounds. Once again reiterating Saura’s background of photography.

The rich warm colours, a theme of the other two accompanying films, are kept here again, as much a part of the dance as the actual movement, as much a part of Spain and its traditions and identity. These colours romanticise his dance spectacles. Warm oranges and reds, an image of the hot sun, often mixed in with dark silhouettes, cutting sharply off the backgrounds, giving the movement more definition and therefore celebration.

If you're expecting a plot-driven film this can be quite frustrating. It is what it is, a documentary and celebration of Spanish music and dance by an enthusiast with an exceptional ability to express his passions for the subject. It is hard not to instantly appreciate what is shown here due to the way everything is presented. If you are a fan of traditional Spanish culture, music and dance, you will love it. If not, you will still find it hard not to enjoy Saura's unique highly stylised direction and amazingly well presented photography.

Chris Horsnell

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