Cali: de Película

About This Movie

Cali: de Película is a fascinating little documentary that runs just 13 minutes, but it packs a punch. The film captures the Feria de Cali, a vibrant carnival that happens between Christmas and New Year. There's this intoxicating blend of commodity fetishism and cultural motifs – you’ve got red devils and white indians that feel like something out of a surrealist ethnography. It’s all very vivid, almost dreamlike, with a pacing that immerses you rather than overwhelms. The atmosphere is electric, showcasing the celebratory chaos of the festival. It’s distinctive for its rawness and how it echoes the ethnographic styles of Michael Taussig, leaving you with lingering thoughts about spectacle and reality.

Cali: de Película is a rare find, especially for those interested in Latin American cinema. It’s been released in limited formats over the years, making original copies somewhat scarce. Collectors appreciate its ethnographic approach and the way it encapsulates a unique cultural moment, often seeking out better quality transfers as they emerge.