Film Review: Truth Trumps Fiction Again in ‘Searching for Sugar Man’

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CHICAGO – The old axiom “truth is stranger than fiction” is proved again in the unique story of a pop troubadour from the 1970s named Rodriguez, who produced two searing albums and then disappeared into oblivion. Unknown to the artist, he became huge in South Africa. The odd hope of Rodriguez is chronicled in “Searching for Sugar Man.”

Rating: 4.0/5.0

The story is fascinating and truly unbelievable. The country of South Africa, lost in the midst of its relationship with apartheid, finds truth and energy in the words of a pop poet from Detroit. With the proliferation of music voices in the world, the one lone guitarist with a bunch of inspirational lyrics ends up soothing a nation’s soul. The captivating documentary revives Rodriguez and gives his old songs another deserved stage, and it is the story of the man, his family and his admirers on the other side of the world. This is a must-see true story for fans of music, ardent expectations and finally, redemption.

The year is 1968, in riot-torn Detroit, Michigan. An unknown singer named Sixto Diaz Rodriguez, AKA Rodriguez, is playing the stages of the Motor City. He is known for his mysterious air, soulful tunes and incredible lyrics. Two music producers, who had worked with Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, thinks they have found the next Bob Dylan. They record and release the debut album of Rodriguez in 1970, the savage “Cold Fact.” The album garners good reviews, but generates no sales.

Another recording attempt was launched the next year – “Coming From Reality” – but again is received with no sales. The musician Rodriguez fades away, taking odd jobs in Detroit for the next decade and a half. Around the mid-1970s, it took a segregated nation on the other side of the world, South Africa, to appreciate and lionize the truth teller. Rodriguez becomes a sensation, unknown to him. When rumors of his death permeated the rock press in South Africa, some intrepid reporters searched for the creator of “Cold Fact” once again.

Continue reading for Patrick McDonald’s full review of “Searching for Sugar Man”

Rodriguez Today Walks Through Detroit in ‘Searching for Sugar Man’ Photo credit: Sony Pictures Classics

Continue reading for Patrick McDonald’s full review of “Searching for Sugar Man”