Chulas Fronteras

“Chulas Fronteras” is a magnificent introduction to the most exciting Nortena musicians working today: Los Alegres de Teran, Lydia Mendoza, Flaco Jimenez and others. Theirs is the music of the Northern Texas-Mexico border. It reflects the spirit of the people in their strong family life and sheer enjoyment of domestic rituals- preparing food and eating, celebrating a 50th wedding anniversary, gathering in the backyard with friends. Blank does not overlook the hardships of the Chicano migrating from state to state for seasonal work in the fields. He makes clear the role that music has in redeeming their lives by giving utterance to collective pain. Music, politics and life are integrated in this film in a way that is both enchanting and unsettling.