Watch Fandango at the Wall

Fandango at the Wall is a 2020 documentary film that explores the vibrant and diverse world of Mexican music and culture through a unique lens. The film follows renowned historian and author Douglas Brinkley and Grammy Award-winning musician Arturo O'Farrill as they travel to the Tijuana-San Diego border and join forces with the Villalobos Brothers - a group of talented Mexican musicians - to create a musical celebration of the borderlands.

The film is inspired by the annual Fandango Fronterizo - a concert that takes place on both sides of the US-Mexico border, bringing together musicians and audiences from both countries to celebrate their shared heritage and love of music. The concert is organized by Jorge Francisco Castillo, also known as "Pachamama" and the film follows him as he prepares for the event.

In addition to documenting the preparations for the Fandango Fronterizo, Fandango at the Wall delves into the history of fandango music and its significance in Mexican culture. The fandango is a lively and improvisational style of music and dance that has been passed down through generations of Mexican musicians. The film explores the origins of this music, as well as its connections to other forms of music around the world.

Through interviews with musicians, historians, and cultural experts, the film highlights the role that music plays in building bridges between communities and bringing people together. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by musicians and artists on both sides of the border, particularly in the current political climate.

One of the standout elements of the film is the incredible musical performances by the Villalobos Brothers and their fellow musicians. The film captures the energy and excitement of the musicians as they come together to create something truly special. The music is a fusion of traditional fandango music with other styles including jazz, blues, and rock, creating a unique and dynamic sound.

Fandango at the Wall is also a visually stunning film, showcasing the beauty of the natural landscape and the vibrancy of the culture in the borderlands. The film features breathtaking shots of the ocean, desert, and other natural landscapes, as well as intimate moments with the musicians and the people who call the borderlands home.

Overall, Fandango at the Wall is a celebration of music, culture, and community. It is a powerful reminder of the ways in which music can transcend borders and bring people together, even in the face of adversity. Through its captivating storytelling and stunning visuals, the film offers a unique and compelling perspective on the borderlands and the people who inhabit them.

Fandango at the Wall is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.7.