FROM HEAVEN IS CALI, 12min., Columbia Documentary/Drama
Directed by Christaan Felber
In the Southwest of Colombia, there is a city where salsa dancing exists in a form that is unique in its boldness and energy, yet pure in its tradition and style. Cali, known as the world’s salsa dancing capital, and its people (referred to as Caleños) own this iconic dancing style. The city has been the muse of many salsa musicians, making it the subject of illustrative songs that tell the story of the “salsa Caleña” style as a symbol of an entire culture. Salsa Caleña is not only danced but consumed with a burst of energy, joy, and sentimentality that brightens the streets of Cali whenever there’s salsa music playing. From professional salsa dancers and musicians to nightclub owners and costume designers, “From Heaven is Cali” (whose title is taken from the famous salsa/Cali anthem “Cali Pachenguero” by Grupo Niche), explores the relationships between this unique art-form and the people whose lives are interwoven into a culture that has become synonymous with the city of Cali.
New York SCIENCE & NATURE FEEDBACK Film Festival 