"Popular!" is the first full length documentary that takes an intimate look at the sensational new music from the streets of Havana, Cuba. This music, known as timba, is made by a new generation and takes off where the Buena Vista Social Club left off; it is sexy, streetwise, mesmerizing and wild. Translate German Italian Japanese Spanish French This is the story of a legendary popular Cuban music orchestra that has kept the Cubans dancing for nearly two decades. The film introduces musical visionary David Calzado, the controversial director of Charanga Habanera. He keeps his vow to stay on top in Havana's competitive music scene in spite of government restrictions, (they were banned for 6 months for lewd behavior in 1997), and the loss of talent to greener pastures. The film was shot 2003-2005, as David Calzado and Charanga Habanera reached a phenomenal popularity kicked off by their bestselling CD "Soy Cubano, Soy Popular", (I am Cuban, I am Popular). Charangamania took over the island and they were voted Most Popular Band for 3 years in a row. David told the New York Times: “The Charanga Habanera can bring more people out to Revolution Square than Fidel Castro”. Highlights include a tour to Tokyo, Japan, and concerts in Lenin Park, Alamar, Habana Café, and a special show for construction workers in Varadero, Cuba. "The live popular concerts alone are worth it" -- "The Charanga is an audiovisual spectacle" --
Starring DAVID CALZADO and the CHARANGA HABANERA Commentary by Grammy Artists CHUCHO VALDES and, JUAN DE MARCOS.
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