Is Return to Gorée Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2007)

📖 The Core Premise

Return to Gorée stands as a 2007 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Music, Documentary landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Because jazz is the miraculous product of the horror of slavery, Youssou N'Dour returned to the slave route and the music they created, in search of new inspiration. Accompanied by the blind Swiss pianist Moncef Genoud and the Director of the Gorée House of Slaves Museum, Joseph N'Diaye, the Senegalese singer wrote new songs during this initiatory voyage which took him to the USA then to Europe. At Gorée, an island just off the Senegalese coast and symbol of the slave trade, his memorable concert marked the end of this quest and the start of a new challenge: making today's generation aware of the tragedy of slavery, the importance of not forgetting and the need for reconciliation."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Return to Gorée, Youssou N'Dour delivers a performance that anchors the emotional weight of the film. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Music. The cinematography and score further amplify the experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Return to Gorée worth your time? If you appreciate Music, Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2007, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Return to Gorée is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 110 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.