The Flamenco Guitar of Yerai Cortés, 2024.
Directed by Antón Álvarez.
SYNOPSIS:
La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés is a story that combines the power of music with the weight of a family secret that must come to light. Starring Yerai Cortés himself, the plot explores themes of passion, love and forgiveness as the protagonist confronts the hidden truths of his family. Wrapped in a unique musical experience, this story not only highlights the power of flamenco as a means of expression, but also addresses Yerai’s internal conflict.
Flamenco guitar is a cornerstone of Spanish culture and a sound recognised the world over. Of course it is perhaps tied most to older generations but there are those keeping the flame burning bright like the young star Yerai Cortés, barely in his 30s but putting a fresh spin on the tried and tested sounds that have inspired so many. His story is now brought to life in a creative directorial debut by Antón Álvarez. This film acts as a celebration of Flamenco and Cortés’ sound specifically but also a reflection on Gypsy culture in Alicante and a look at a family secret.
A documentary on the surface, there is much more to this film than simply a by the numbers look at Yerai’s life or the music. This is an examination of the inner workings of his family and how one particular secret has reframed entire relationships within it. At its core it is a family drama with the exquisite sounds of the guitar looming throughout. The musical sequences are inventive with interpretive dance and creative visuals elevating the music rather than distracting, placing the beautiful guitar sounds front and centre.
It is an emotive watch and one that will no doubt leave Yerai Cortés with a legion of fans. Few documentaries get to the heart of their subject matter in quite such a distinctive and original way. It feels at times like we are lost in an Almodóvar film. For a debut film there is a searing originality to it and Álvarez clearly understands how to put an original spin on what could be a difficult story to tell. Tell it with visual flair and a focus on the human story and tragedy at its core keeps it engrossing.
The Flamenco Guitar of Yerai Cortés is a pleasant surprise, it is not necessarily the film we might expect from the title however, it wonderfully brings the titular musician’s story to life. It really captures the culture of his childhood and how important music has been in shaping his life and the emotion at its core with the people he’s grown up with and met along the way shaping his sound so wonderfully.
Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★/ Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★
Chris Connor
