Customer Reviews

Vamos al Tambor, Volume 1: Presentations in Matanzas, Cuba

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This DVD presents two Santeria rituals without narration or interpretation. In both cases the filmmakers were careful to present only public rituals in order to respect the privacy of the religion. Not that Santeria has anything to hide. This would be the case for almost any religion I can think of (I have a Ph.D. in Relgious Studies). There are simply moments of high sanctity when a camera would be invasive and inappropriate. The first ritual presented is of the initiation of three Iyawos to the Orisha Chango. In this case we watch their presentation to the sacred drums. There are 16 "chapters" to the ritual, each associated with a particular Orisha and specific rhythms and songs. It is a community ceremony so we are also given an invaluable glimpse into the life of a Santeria community. In addition, this ceremony is set in Cuba, the home of Santeria, and the drummers and singer are masters of their arts. I used this in a class on Santeria and though the entire ritual was too long to show (it lasts well over an hour) the chapters I did show elicited valuable discussion and brought us into the life of the religion in a way that books cannot. I'm not sure this would be of interest to the casual viewer since there is no narration of what you're seeing, but if you have read about Santeria and know some of the the basics of the religion this DVD will bring you into that world in a vivd and compelling way. If, however, you associate Santeria with sensationalism, you will be disappointed. That's not what Santeria is about, and that's not what this DVD portrays. Final analysis: an excellent glimpse into a fascinating and rich religious tradition, highly recommended for sincere students of Santeria and related religious traditions.

If you are interested in basic visual information about one of many Santeria practices, then "Vamos al Tambor" is a good purchase. It does not otherize persons who practice the religion, but is a simple documentary of more public celebrations associated with Santeria (i.e., introducing santeros to the ceremonial drums, introducing new drums and drummers to more mature drums and drummers). The DVD does not provide insight into the religion's private ceremonies and divinations. But, a great deal can be learned about dress, song, physical diversity, and culture through observing this DVD.

Wow, this is a great video. I learned so much about the Orisha ceramony that I had no idea took place. I have seen it now 3 times. I loved it. I will keep my out for more tapes like this.