Metal and Melancholy 1993
Distributed by First Run/Icarus Films, 32 Court St., 21st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201; 800-876-1710
Produced by Suzanne Van Voorst/Peter Delpeut
Directed by Heddy Honigmann
DVD, color, 80 min.
College - Adult
Anthropology, Economics, Latin American Studies, Sociology, Transportation
Date Entered: 11/28/2007
Reviewed by Charmaine Henriques, Northwestern University Library, Evanston, IL“You have to be ingenious to survive the crisis.” Taxi Cab Driver, Lima Peru
During the early 1990’s the Peruvian economy went through a harsh economic crisis. In order to combat the financial stress, members of the middle class used their personal vehicles to become part-time taxi drivers. Through ride alongs and interviews, this documentary provides a view into the eccentric and sometimes sad life of these individuals as they try to survive the bankruptcy of their country. Featured persons include: a policeman, an actor, a single mother, a teacher, and others who have formed a bond with their automobiles and utilize inventive and sometimes comical means in protecting them from thieves. Some moments are joyous, as one driver takes the cameras to his home where one can see his pride and love for his family. Other moments are poignant, as another driver discusses his daughter’s courage as she fights her battle with leukemia.
This is an entertaining and colorful documentary that takes a novel approach on portraying the way a severe economic situation can impact the human condition, but also proves even with pain, life goes on and can be beautiful.
Awards
- Grand Prix, 1994 Cinema du Reel
- Johnny Jordann Prize, 1994 Amsterdam Art Fund
- Golden Dove and Mercedes Benz Award, 1994 Leipzig Film Festival