Genghis Blues
Seen it?1999 | 87 min | Documentary, Music
Saturday Specialearly ratingWhy it’s a Saturday Special
It earned strong reviews (82% on Rotten Tomatoes), despite almost no lasting buzz. A strong pick for the weekend.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for the curious. If you loved 20 Feet from Stardom or The Last Waltz, start here.
- The mood
- Eye-opening.
- The pace
- Moves along nicely, at 1 hr 27 min.
- What might put you off
- Nothing much for most grown-ups.
Blind blues musician Paul Pena is perhaps best known for his song "Jet Airliner". In 1993, Pena heard Tuvan throat singing over his shortwave radio and subsequently taught himself how to reproduce these extraordinary sounds. This documentary follows him to Tuva, where he takes part in a throat singing competition. Languages featured in the film include English, Russian and Tuvan.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsStrong
82% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesNot counted
Not measured yet: not enough ratings
- AwardsBelow par
Nominated for 1 Oscar.
- Reach & staying powerBelow par
Streaming release that reached a small audience so far; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactWeak
About 13K people sought it out in the past year
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Cast & crew
Directed by Roko Belic
- Paul Penahimself
- Kongar-ol Ondarhimself