Educational Media Reviews Online

Chico & Rita is a beautifully animated film that follows the tumultuous romantic relationship of two Cuban musicians that stretches from the 1940’s to present day. In addition to telling the story of Chico, a talented pianist and Rita, a beautiful nightclub singer, the film also serves as a love song to pre-revolution Havana, New York City and the jazz scene of that era.

Cuba’s volatile history plays an important role in the tale of Chico and Rita. Employing flashbacks to drive the narrative, the film draws a sharp contrast between Chico’s dreary life in modern day Cuba and his memories of a vibrant 1940s Havana nightlife. Chico and Rita’s romance began at a time when American tourists filled the streets of Havana and pop culture flowed unhindered between Cuba and the US. The pair fall in and out of love on a regular basis, each crossing the globe in support of a musical career. Their relationship is ultimately interrupted for half a century by the closure of Cuba’s borders during the Communist revolution.

The storyline is heightened by the distinctive animation style of Spanish illustrator Javiar Mariscal. Each scene is drawn with heavy, fluid lines that evoke a two dimensional style not often seen in modern animated films. At its best, the film takes advantage of its medium to heighten the sense of frenzy, romance and solemnity that follow Chico and Rita on their journey. The results are an engaging modern animated film aimed at adults.

Chico & Rita is highly recommended for film and animation studies, jazz studies and Latin American studies.