JÉRÔME GUIOT, THIERRY TESTON | TRINIDAD & TOBAGO | 2014 | 80' | ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
Oddly enough, only one new acoustical instrument was invented in the 20th century: the Caribbean steelpan. Originally developed in Trinidad & Tobago, the steelpan is the country's national instrument. In their first feature film/documentary directors Jérôme Guiot and Thierry Teston present a grand and compelling depiction of the steelpan's history.
Late 1930s and early 1940s. The world is on fire, but on the Caribbean island of Trinidad & Tobago something beautiful is happening: in the cities' slums the steelpan is born, a story of mythological proportions starts. It is the beginning of the steel band movement, which was quickly picked up internationally, especially in France, Japan and the United States. Fans and players of the steelpan gather each year for Panorama, the World's Largest Steelpan Competition.
The film's central narrative theme is formed by the dramatization of a pivotal episode in the history of the steelpan. In 1947, 19-year-old Goldteeth and his brother Roy steal two 55-gallon oil drums in order to turn them into steelpans. Previously, much smaller paint cans were used. Pursued by the police, they also have to battle with their rivals of the Red Army...
Jérôme Guiot, one of the two directors of the film, will be attending the festival and will answer the audience's questions after the screening.
Screening:
Venue: Rialto
SUN 16 AUG – 17:15 (preceded by short 4 avril 1968) 