It is a film that echoes the battle cries of artists, exposing the industry’s injustices and igniting a powerful call for change.
Short Films Matter – Review Archive
Film Title: Enough is Enough
Directed by: Lex Lucas
Genre(s): Experimental, Music
Runtime: 8min
Year: 2014
Country: United States
Language(s): English
Star Rating: 4/5
Trailer or Full Short Film: https://youtu.be/KeJydDArckE
Review Snippet:
A film that echoes the battle cries of artists, exposing the injustices of the industry and igniting a powerful call for change.
Film Review:
Lex Lucas’s experimental music film is a powerful and socially charged exploration of the intersection between art, activism, and injustice. Partially dramatizing the protest song ‘Enough is Enough’ by SoSala, the film sheds light on the Justice For Jazz Artists Campaign – initiated by New York’s Musicians Union Chapter Local 802. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a significant issue: the mishandling of funds meant for musicians’ pension payments after the elimination of certain sales taxes at live jazz shows.
The film immerses viewers in the struggle faced by artists, vividly brought to life by the band and lead singer Sohrab Saadat Ladjevardi, along with Tim Schuebel’s compelling portrayal of a defiant club owner refusing to pay the band. Through the lens of music and drama, the film captures the essence of social justice, highlighting the challenges, betrayals, and resilience of musicians.
‘Enough is Enough’ doesn’t just stop at raising awareness; it evokes a visceral response, aided by an edgy, raw energy that permeates every frame. Lex Lucas skillfully combines storytelling with music, creating a compelling narrative that resonates deeply, making viewers reflect on the plight of artists and the urgent need for change. It’s a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience, offering a fresh perspective on the power of music in addressing social issues.
“Yallah” feat. Fearless SADATO Directed by Steve Black (Short Film)
Short Films Matter – Review Archive
Film Title: Sadato Yallah!
Directed by: Stephen Black
Genre(s): Documentary, Music
Runtime: 39min
Year: 1997
Country: Japan
Language(s): English, Farsi, German, Japanese
Star Rating: 3/5
Review Snippet:
A gritty and intimate snapshot of 90s Tokyo’s underground music scene, where raw talent and spirit take center stage.
Film Review:
Stephen Black’s ‘Sadato Yallah!’ takes you straight back to 1996 and the final concert of Sadato (the band). Shot at the Silver Elephant rock club in Tokyo, this short documentary captures a raw and honest performance that feels alive despite the grainy, 90s-style visuals.
The film looks and feels exactly like something from that time, with rough edges and bold editing choices typical of the era. It might not be polished but that only adds to its charm and authenticity. Stephen Black does a solid job of putting Sadato (SoSaLa) and his band front and center, showing off their musical skill and on-stage presence. Sadato sings, plays instruments, and blows the saxophone with real passion and energy.
Between the songs, there are small glimpses of Japanese culture and scenes from the city that add a bit of atmosphere without taking away from the music. It gives the film a nice sense of place, reminding you this was a specific moment in Tokyo’s underground music world.
This is not a flashy concert film. It is more like a time capsule that lets you experience the raw energy and talent of Sadato and his band in a very real and unfiltered way. The visuals might be rough but the music and spirit shine through. If you want a look at 90s Japanese underground music through the eyes of someone who was right in the middle of it, this film is one for you.
Step back to the eccentric and vibrant summer 1990 as SoSaLa delivers a wild and entertaining jazz-infused performance.
Short Films Matter – Review Archive
Film Title: Sa-da-to Slick
Directed by: Christophe Charles
Genre(s): Experimental, Music
Runtime: 31min
Year: 1990
Country: Japan
Language(s): English
Star Rating: 4/5
Review Snippet:
Step back in time to the eccentric and vibrant summer of 1990 as SoSaLa delivers a wild and entertaining jazz-infused performance.
Film Review:
Christophe Charles’s short experimental film takes viewers on a mesmerizing musical journey with Sadato, popularly known as SoSaLa, during a live performance in Japan in the summer of 1990. The film unveils an eccentric yet highly talented presentation as Sadato, armed with his edgy style and saxophonist prowess, takes the stage at a local cafe. The wild vibrancy of his jazz-infused performance is vividly portrayed through the home-video style videography, offering almost raw footage that intimately showcases the artist’s energy and skill.
This 33-year-old piece of film serves as a captivating time capsule, encapsulating a unique era filled with freshness and excitement. Sadato’s on-stage charisma and unconventional antics add a layer of humor, outrageousness, and sheer entertainment to the viewing experience. The film not only captures the essence of Sadato’s artistic expression but also provides a glimpse into the cultural and musical landscape of the time.
Overall, this short film is a delightful and nostalgic exploration of an era, skillfully blending music, personality, and raw authenticity to create a compelling visual and auditory experience for audiences, both old and new. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Sadato’s performance and the cultural richness of that particular moment in musical history.
A raw, experimental blend of music and activism that turns imperfection into a powerful statement.
Short Films Matter – Review Archive
Film Title: A Civil War Souvenir – “me; you; key”
Directed by: Takashi Suzuki
Genre(s): Documentary, Music
Runtime: 40min
Year: 1991
Country: Japan
Language(s): English, Farsi, German, Japanese
Star Rating: 3/5
Review Snippet:
A raw, experimental blend of music and activism that turns imperfection into a powerful statement.
Film Review:
Directed by Takashi Suzuki, a devoted admirer of SoSaLa’s music, A Civil War Souvenir – “me; you; key” is an evocative short film from 1991. Recorded at the Theatre Poo in Tokyo, this 40-minute music-based documentary is as much a performance piece as it is a raw, experimental reflection on Japan’s socio-economic challenges at the time.
At its heart is SoSaLa (Sadato). Through his music and stage presence, he unpacks the societal struggles triggered by Japan’s economic downturn in the early 1990s. His belief in the transformative power of music – to confront harsh realities – permeates the film. Sadato’s enthusiasm and activist spirit shine as he uses his artistry to deliver a heartfelt call to action, urging audiences to break free from apathy.
The film’s production is undeniably rough around the edges. Its low visual quality and frequent unfocused shots might deter some viewers. However, these imperfections lend it a gritty, unpolished authenticity that feels refreshingly honest even three decades later. The rawness echoes the experimental energy of its time, capturing an artist willing to challenge norms both musically and politically.
A delicate dance between life and mortality.
Short Films Matter – Review Archive
Film Title: Death and the Dancer
Directed by: Ed Haas
Genre(s): Fantasy, Music
Runtime: 8min
Year: 2010
Country: United States
Language(s):
Star Rating: 3/5
Review Snippet:
A delicate dance between life and mortality.
Film Review:
Ed Haas’s enchanting and deeply spiritual short fantasy film, starring the late Nancy Vining Van Ness, immerses viewers in the magical encounter between an aging dancer and Death, portrayed by Lorenzo Valoy, within the serene confines of New York’s Central Park. Co-written with Johanna Heinemann-Haas, the narrative unfolds as a delicate dance between poignancy and fantasy, exploring the profound themes of life, mortality, and friendship.
Set against the backdrop of a low-budget production, the film captivates with its artistic performances and the absence of dialogue, relying instead on the expressive power of silent cinema. Nancy Vining Van Ness exudes a joyful yet melancholic presence, adding a layer of depth to the film’s contemplative tone.
Sohrab Saadat Ladjevardi’s music, composed for the film, complements the narrative seamlessly, enhancing the overall spiritual ambiance. Ladjevardi also makes a brief appearance. Though highly artistic and experimental, the film, despite its silent nature, speaks volumes about the beauty found in the transient nature of life and the connections formed along the way. ‘Death and the Dancer’ is a poignant and unique cinematic experience that may not appeal to everyone but serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in its various forms.
