5 Latin Music Movies You Need to See
A list of the 5 best Latin music movies that you need to see. These films capture the energy and passion of Latin music and will get you dancing in your seat.
Selena
Selena is a 1997 American biographical musical drama film written and directed by Gregory Nava about the life and career ofSelena Quintanilla-Pérez, a Tejano musician who was murdered at the age of 23. The film stars Jennifer Lopez in her breakout role as Selena. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Nomination for Best Actress. Selena’s brother, Abraham Quintanilla Jr., served as executive producer and recovery consultant for the film.
The Mambo Kings
The Mambo Kings is a 1992 drama film directed by Arne Glimcher. It stars Antonio Banderas and Armand Assante as Cesar and Nestor Castillo, Cuban brothers who relocate to the United States in the 1950s and become successful musicians. The film is based on a novel by Oscar Hijuelos.
The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor (Banderas) and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama.
Calle 54
Featuring some of the biggest names in Latin jazz, Calle 54 is a must-see for any fan of the genre. The documentary features performances by Tito Puente, Chucho Valdés, Gato Barbieri, Paquito D’Rivera, Jerry González, and many more. If you want to get a taste of what Latin jazz is all about, this is the perfect place to start.
Our Latin Thing (Nuestra Musica)
Our Latin Thing (Nuestra Musica) is a 2012 documentary film directed by Ballet Hispánico founder Tina Ramirez. The film documents the history of Latin music in the United States, from its roots in Cuba to its many genres and styles. It features interviews with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Gloria Estefan, Celia Cruz, and Carlos Santana.
East Side Story
1. East Side Story: This 2007 film tells the story of two young lovers from rival gangs in New York City. The film features a Latin hip hop soundtrack and stars Melissa Barrera and Jon Ecker.
2. La Bamba: This 1987 film is based on the life of Ritchie Valens, a Mexican-American singer who rose to fame in the late 1950s. The film stars Lou Diamond Phillips and Esai Morales, and features Valens’ hits “La Bamba” and “Donna.”
3. Selena: Based on the life of Selena Quintanilla-Perez, this 1997 film stars Jennifer Lopez as the iconic Tejano singer. The film also stars Edward James Olmos and Lupe Ontiveros, and features Selena’s biggest hits.
4. Y Tu Mama Tambien: This 2001 Mexican drama follows two teenage boys who embark on a road trip with an older woman. The film stars Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna, and features a Latin pop soundtrack.
5. El Cid: The Legend: This 2004 Spanish epic tells the story of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, a medieval warrior known as El Cid. The film stars Santiago Cabrera and Louise Griffiths, and features a Latin classical soundtrack.
