Backdrop preview Oscar D' Leon - Live From London backdrop
Oscar D' Leon - Live From London

Oscar D' Leon - Live From London (1988)

Feb 16, 1988 51m Music

After several undistinguished albums in the early 80s, D’León began a return to form with 1984’s Con Cariño. Between 1985 and 1987 D’León issued a succession of albums featuring some of his strongest material, inspired playing and assured arrangements, which justified his position as one of salsa’s true international stars. The definitive albums of this period were 1987’s Riquiti..! and La Salsa Soy Yo. In June and October 1988, D’León demonstrated his live reputation by playing three sell-out concerts at London’s Hackney Empire. The last was recorded and broadcast in 1989 as a programme in BBC television’s Rhythms Of The World world music series, then released as Oscar D’León Live, the first salsa video to be issued in the UK.

Cast

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Oscar D'León

as Oscar D' León

Crew

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Thematic Analysis

Oscar D' Leon - Live From London represents a fascinating example of Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Oscar D' Leon - Live From London took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 51 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 105 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 1300 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1988, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Oscar D' Leon - Live From London shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Honey, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Oscar D' Leon - Live From London subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like El Cantante and Salsa Lives explore similar territory, Oscar D' Leon - Live From London stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 16, 1988
  • Runtime: 51m

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