Eileen Schendel

I was mesmerized by the entire movie. I loved the music, performances and how they and the anticipation of the Carnival transferred the people into a dream world that transcended the reality of their poverty. The unique personalities, culture, beautiful scenery, and vibrant music were seamlessly meshed with love, the tragedy of loss, and the continuity of life, hope, and relationships. The movie displayed brilliantly the power of music.

I thought as I watched this, "How can we do this to each other.". Debating whether or not a person is human and has the same right to live his life without suppression as does the one debating. Using that as an excuse because the success of that person is viewed as a threat to one's need to control. Watching innocent people mowed down, including children, three centuries ago, reminded me that we will never learn. The movie's scenery and soundtrack are spectacular. The use of people indigenous to the location and actual terrain added so much to the feel of the story.

I was spellbound throughout the movie. The plot and actions move smoothly through storytelling via computer apps and digital communicating.