Buena Vista Social Club (1999)

BBC FOUR, 9.00PM ★★★★

 Ry Cooder’s rediscovery of ageing Cuban musicians and the resulting concert at Carnegie Hall, became a global phenomenon on its release. Wim Wenders’ cinematography is gorgeous, especially when he’s filming in Cuba, and the roguish octogenarians are hugely likeable, but the relentless presence of Cooder and his son proves contentious in the long run. Still essential viewing, however.