Return to Gorée
Return to Gorée is a musical journey in a very literal sense of the word.
Senagalese performer Youssou N'Dour assembles a crew of musicians from Europe and America, and explore the array of musical styles such as Jazz, Soul, Blues and Latin music, that have evolved from what he rather kindly calls the "black diaspora", and what we might rightly call, abduction and slavery.
For fans of N'Dour, it provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at this outstanding musician. For those not familiar with him (and even some who are), his egocentrism and predominance over the content may be a little off-putting. But it is well worth persisting with the film.
This isn't the most sophisticated documentary in terms of its production values. It's more of a series of interactions, rather than a documentary with a clear, linear narrative. But the heartfelt performances, combined with the tetes-a-tetes with various interviewees from Geneva to Africa, makes this an engaging and ultimately truthful film.
There is much to be said for the influence of African people around the world, on the development of various musical styles. This film doesn't attempt to provide a thorough chronological and cultural outline, but it certainly leaves the viewer with a reinvigorated sense of appreciation for how the wealth of African musical talent has informed music all over the world.