Watch Botso

Botso is a heartwarming documentary film that was released in 2014. The film follows the extraordinary life story of Botso Korisheli, a renowned music teacher, violinist, and Georgian Holocaust survivor. Botso's remarkable journey starts in Georgia in the 1930s, where he grew up in a family of musicians. Despite facing many challenges, including the trauma of losing his father in World War II and being sent to a Soviet labor camp as a young man, Botso remains determined to pursue his passion for music.

The film jumps between past and present, showing how Botso's experiences have shaped him into the person he is today. After migrating to the United States in the 1970s, he settled in California and established the Botso Korisheli Music Institute, where he devoted his life to teaching young musicians. Through numerous interviews with Botso's family, friends, and former students, the film provides insight into the man behind the music and the impact he has had on the lives of others.

The movie showcases how Botso's kind, gentle and patient nature has nurtured countless generations of young musicians. The Botso Korisheli Music Institute has become an institution in its own way, a hub for young musicians from different parts of the world who seek guidance from Botso, whom they lovingly call "Papa Botso." As a testament to his teaching, the documentary features interviews with some of Botso's former students, who have gone on to achieve great success in the music industry, such as cellist Tina Guo and composer Lisa Liu.

Despite his many accomplishments, the film also shows Botso's humble side - his habit of calling himself "a simple teacher," and his deep gratitude for the opportunities that music has given him. His life experiences have not made him bitter but even more thankful for how music had helped him overcome so much adversity.

One of the most touching parts of the documentary is showing Botso reconnecting with his long-lost closest friend and collaborator, Shavleg Armasi, who he had been separated from for over fifty years. Shavleg arrives in America from Georgia to play music with Botso again, and the duo performs and records together for the first time in decades. Viewers will be moved by their reunion and the inherent emotion tied to the scene.

The documentary also delves into Botso's past in Georgia, where he witnessed horrific acts of violence during the Nazi occupation. His firsthand accounts of the Holocaust provide a powerful reminder of the importance of never forgetting such atrocities, even as time goes on and memories fade.

Botso is not just a story about one person's life but encapsulates the endurance of human spirit, kindness, and love for music. It feels like a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and love, which prevails over even the darkest of times. It's highly recommended for anyone who loves music, history, and inspiring stories about ordinary people who do extraordinary things.

In summary, Botso is a poignant documentary about the life of an exceptional music teacher and violinist whose journey spans a history of survival and perseverance. The film beautifully weaves together Botso's past and present, showcasing how his love for music has influenced generations of musicians. It is an emotional and inspirational story that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.