Calypso’s Heartbeat Revived in Stunning Documentary

Read Time:3 Minute, 36 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
One Hand Don’t Clap
–

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 1991, 2024 Kino Lorber 4K restoration
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Kavery Dutta Kaul
Where To Watch: March 8, 2024, in New York at BAM Rose Cinemas, available on DVD May 7, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Kavery Dutta Kaul’s ONE HAND DON’T CLAP is a symphony of sight and sound that brings the heart of Calypso and Soca music to life. This film shines with Kino Lorber’s 4K restoration, which transports viewers from the hustle of New York’s music scene to the colorful festivities of Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival. It’s a deep dive into a genre’s soulful narrative and evolution that has touched hearts worldwide yet remains an unsung hero on the global music stage.

At the core of the film are the pioneering spirits of Lord Kitchener and Calypso Rose, whose stories of creative excellence and groundbreaking movement in a male-dominated style are beautifully interlaced with vibrant archival footage, poignant interviews, and stunning performances. Their journeys, emblematic of Calypso’s mark on music history, anchor the film’s narrative, blending personal triumphs with the broader evolution of the genre in a storytelling style that captivates and educates.

Through the director’s lens, ONE HAND DON’T CLAP embarks on a historical trip, tracing Calypso’s roots back to its inception as a form of resistance among enslaved Africans in Trinidad. The film charts the genre’s ascent, highlighting its rich amalgamation of cultural influences that have forged a sound unmistakably Caribbean and irresistibly global. Lord Kitchener and Calypso Rose are spotlighted as artists and monumental figures whose global resonance has catapulted Calypso onto the world stage.

Thanks to the efforts of the Academy Film Archive, supported by the Women’s Film Preservation Fund and the Leon Levy Foundation, ONE HAND DON’T CLAP is preserved for posterity. This ensures the film maintains its auditory and visual quality and becomes an accessible treasure for future generations eager to explore Calypso’s spirited heritage. It’s so vital to save films like this for the future!

The documentary transcends its musical subject matter, resonating with audiences far and wide by illustrating music’s unique ability to bridge divides and question what we think we know about music. It serves as an invitation to reconsider the impact of genres on our collective cultural and social fabric, encouraging a wider embrace of the diverse narratives woven through the world’s musical traditions.

ONE HAND DON’T CLAP is an ode to the enduring spirit of Calypso and Soca music. Beyond honoring these genres, the documentary places them within the grand mosaic of global culture, ensuring their stories and beats continue to inspire and unify audiences across continents. This film is a luminous tribute to a musical tradition, lifting it to new heights of cultural appreciation.

The film’s slower, more strategic moments are rich with the anticipation of the next scene, much like the quiet before a storm. The documentary’s vibrancy highlights a profound love for the subject matter. ONE HAND DON’T CLA” is a must-see for anyone looking to be carried away by the captivating tale of Calypso, from its modest origins to its illustrious place in the annals of global music history.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.