The problem isn't really finding Fela, but containing him.
Overview
Fela Anikulapo Kuti created the musical movement Afrobeat and used it as a political forum to oppose the Nigerian dictatorship and advocate for the rights of oppressed people. This is the story of his life, music, and political importance.
Director and cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
"Finding Fela!" is an apt title for this dynamic and thorough documentary by Alex Gibney.
At its best, the film manages the trick of constructing a modern myth while simultaneously deconstructing it - on one level, this is a story about how to tell a story. Plus, it's got a great beat and you can dance to it.
The constant flipping between stagecraft and reality creates a dissonant static that prevents any satisfying connection with the film.
The early songs are a celebration; the later music is a weapon. It would be nice to get more of both, but for that there are the reissued CDs, not to mention this film's soundtrack, a decent sampler.
More films
Gimme Shelter (1970)
Documentary · Music · GP
A detailed chronicle of the famous 1969 tour of the United States by the British rock band The Rolling Stones, which culminated with the disastrous and tragic concert held on December 6 at the Altamont Speedway Free Festival, an event of historical significance, as it marked the end of an era: the generation of peace and love suddenly ...
- Runtime
- 1h 32m
- Director
- Albert Maysles, Charlotte Zwerin
- Cast
- Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts
As It Is in Heaven (2004)
Comedy · Drama · Music · Romance · Not Rated
A musical romantic tragedy about a famous composer who moves back to his small hometown after having had heart troubles. His search for a simple everyday life leads him into teaching the local church choir, which is not easily accepted by the town yet the choir builds a great love for their teacher.
- Runtime
- 2h 12m
- Director
- Kay Pollak
- Cast
- Michael Nyqvist, Frida Hallgren, Helen Sjöholm
The Blues Brothers (1980)
Action · Comedy · Crime · Music · R
Jake Blues, just released from prison, puts his old band back together to save the Catholic home where he and his brother Elwood were raised.
- Runtime
- 2h 13m
- Director
- John Landis
- Cast
- Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, James Brown
Dixie Chicks: Shut Up and Sing (2006)
Documentary · Music · R
Shut Up and Sing is a documentary about the country band from Texas called the Dixie Chicks and how one tiny comment against President Bush dropped their number one hit off the charts and caused fans to hate them, destroy their CD’s, and protest at their concerts. A film about freedom of speech gone out of control and the three girls l...
- Runtime
- 1h 33m
- Director
- Barbara Kopple, Cecilia Peck
- Cast
- Natalie Maines, Emily Erwin, Martie Maguire
The Lorax (2012)
Animation · Family · PG
A 12-year-old boy searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.
- Runtime
- 1h 26m
- Director
- Kyle Balda, Chris Renaud
- Cast
- Danny DeVito, Zac Efron, Ed Helms
Home Makeover (2010)
Animation · Comedy · Family · N/A
When a social worker visits Gru’s house to assess its suitability for children, chaos ensues. Margo, Edith, and Agnes, along with the ever-mischievous Minions, scramble to give the home a makeover in record time. Their attempts to create a warm and inviting environment quickly spiral into hilarity as the Minions’ unorthodox methods lea...
- Runtime
- 5m
- Director
- Kyle Balda, Samuel Tourneux
- Cast
- Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Elsie Kate Fisher
Orientation Day (2010)
Animation · Comedy · Family · N/A
The Minions embark on their first day of work, eager to prove themselves in their new roles. After watching a hilariously outdated 'Initiation Video,' three rookie Minions take on bomb-carrying duty. Predictably, their enthusiasm quickly spirals into chaos as they bungle the simplest of tasks. Packed with slapstick comedy and the Minio...
- Runtime
- 4m
- Director
- Kyle Balda, Samuel Tourneux
- Cast
- Pierre Coffin, Rob Huebel



Comments
Talk about the film with other members