The roots of many Latino musical genres lie in not so savory places. Bachata was born in the bars and whorehouses of the Dominican Republic but now has mass appeal, especially among the Dominican immigrants who call cities like New York their home. Santo Domingo Blues is a full length documentary film that follows the development and growth of the genre through well known bachatero Luis Vargas. Bachata, known as “the song of bitterness” and as the guitar blues of Santo Domingo, sometimes sings about lost loves and the difficulties faced by Dominicanos here in the U.S. and back home on la isla. The film is like the music, filled with deep insight, humor, pain, and warmth rolled up into one enjoyable feature.

The film opened in New York City on September 30 and is currently playing at:

Cinema Village
22 East 12th Street at University Place / (212) 924-3363 / For tickets in advance: www.cinemavillage.com
Showtimes: 1:45pm, 3:40pm, 5:35pm, 7:35pm & 9:35pm
New Coliseum Theater
181st St. and Broadway, Washington Heights / (212) 740-1545
Showtimes: 12pm, 1:15pm, 3:40pm, 5:30pm, 7:20pm 9:10pm & 11:10pm
Jackson Triplex
82nd and Roosevelt Ave., Jackson Heights, Queens / (718) 335-0242
Showtimes: 12:10pm, 1:45pm, 3:30pm, 5:15pm, 7pm, 8:45pm & 10:30pm

Santo Domingo Blues