Named after the street — West 54th — that features the Sony Music Studio where much of the film was made, Trueba’s loving tribute to Latin Jazz was a long overdue project that celebrates a vibrant part of world music. Extraordinary performances by such giants as Chucho Valdés, Bebo Valdés, Cachao, Eliane Elias, Gato Barbieri, Paquito D’Rivera, as well as Tito Puente, filmed in what would be the last weeks of his life. Historical and biographical details provide useful context, but this is a film for and about the music: sit back, relax, and enjoy. A true gem of Latin Jazz aficionados, as well as a valuable primer for those just discovering the genre.

In French, Spanish, and English with English subtitles