Carlos Gardel

Leave it to a friend to introduce me to a film starring a world famous Argentine tango singer, Carlos Gardel.  The film?  Tango Bar- Un Film de John Reinhardt.  Made in 1935 and distributed by Paramount, this silly but fun film is about a gambler, Gardel, and his run-in with a woman who is a professional thief.  (Her dog helps her steal a jewel encrusted bracelet.)  Rosita Moreno portrays the thief.  Who?  Anyway, I am assuming the film was made in Buenos Aires, which did have a blossoming film industry in the 1930s; pretty sure Buenos Aires was the Hollywood of South America at this time.  Lots of stock footage of docks with ocean liners.  And those grand vistas of Barcelona in the 30s with its wide avenues.  It is not a musical, per se, but  Mr. Gardel sings several tango-inspired songs.  To my surprise...I actually enjoyed this film.  Granted, the transfer quality was not 100%, but the story was understandable and the soundtrack clear.  Now I must "discover" this Latin American singer and hear his music.  On a personal note, my father's favorite singer was Carlos Gardel, and surprisingly, I can hear why. I am not an expert on the tango, but it is a music that is definitely the soul and spirit of Argentina and its capital city, Buenos Aires.  My only connection to the tango was watching a musical revue, Tango Argentino when it played at the Golden Gate Theatre back in the 80s.   Boy, am I digressing.  The film does show the sumptuousness of the 30s in the fact of how people dressed up to travel.  30s fashion was so chic!  The title of the film refers to an establishment the Gardel character opens in Barcelona.  Lo and behold, Miss Moreno's characters does not like leading a life of crime and becomes a good girl and works in the Tango Bar as an actress/singer.  There is a surprise discovery and happy ending.  The film runs an hour and would be considered a "B movie."  I've garnered a reputation, as of late, of being a "connoisseur" of this genre of film.   A reputation that is fun! Let's face it, they are films that were made, released and have a cult following of sorts.  It is a film to see; no subtitles so watch it was a Spanish speaking amigo.  I thank my friend for getting this film, but more importantly, for allowing this film to introduce me to a type of music I would otherwise neglect.  Gracias!  Grazie!  Danke!

"Por una cabeza de un noble potrillo

 que justo en la raya afloja al llegar

 y que al regresar parece decir

 no olvides, hermano

 Vos sabes, no hay que jugar..."

(from the song "Por Una Cabez" from the film Tango Bar; music and lyrics by Carlos Gardel and Alfredo La Pera)