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Energetic Latin rhythms and dramatic conflict permeate this story of two Cuban brothers, mambo musicians, who leave Havana in 1952 and go to New York in search of success. But success means different things to each.
To Cesar (Armand Assante), extroverted and materialistic, it means international stardom. To Nestor (Antonio Banderas), sensitive and artistic, success means managing a small club where the music is good and customers enjoy themselves. Cesar, somewhat domineering, drags Nestor along to conform to Cesar's definition of success. And romantic interests complicate the overall plot, en route to a poignant ending.
The way the script is written one would think the story was based on fact, especially given the "I Love Lucy" and Desi Arnaz sequence. But the story is fictional, based on a novel. Still, the film could be construed thematically as a kind of archetype story of immigrants who migrate to America to pursue the 1950s American dream.
Casting is okay. But Armand Assante overplays his role as Cesar, a character who is not terribly sympathetic. The result is a performance that grates a bit much. Banderas' performance seems more natural, less contrived.
Cinematography trends a bit dark. Though the story is superficially upbeat, the tone conveys a dark undercurrent. And colors correspond to moods of various scenes. Production design, costumes, and sets are lavish. Celia Cruz adds zest as a Latin diva.
"The Mambo Kings" is something of a period piece, a "come-to-America" success story more fashionable in previous decades. Maybe that's why the story didn't really interest me. But it's a well-made film, one that will be enjoyed by the right audience.
score /10
Lechuguilla 28 November 2010
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2345726/ |
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20-2-2021 00:05:16