| Summary: | Long kept a secret, the documentary Jamdown by Emmanuel Bonn offers us a fascinating dive into the world of reggae. Filmed in 1980 in the streets of Kingston (Jamdown is the slang nickname for Jamaica), this radical testimony erases all traces of commentary in favor of a naturalistic exploration of the place. Interspersed with intertitles dedicated to political struggles in Africa or America, the film is also worthwhile for its long sequences which reveal the incredible photogenic nature of local society. There are remarkable images of public transport, open-air markets, but also the endless games of dominoes. Of course many shots are devoted to the local musical stars such as Toots And The Maytals and Cedric Myton of the vocal trio The Congos. This choice is very relevant, as it recalls the impact of rhythm and blues on reggae (the version of "54-46 Was My Number" by Toots Hibbert is to die for) but also the essential function of Rasta mysticism on the surrounding soil. Completed by a feature from the very creative British Jamaican community, this video of a little over an hour draws with authenticity from one of the great Caribbean currents of the end of the last century: highly recommended! Vincent Caffiaux.
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