'Chico and Rita' an animation gem

Directors: Javier Marsical/Fernando Trueba

Cast (Voices): Eman Xor Ona, Mario Guerra, Limarra Meneses

Cert: 15

Animation for adults, and a film that is enchanting and emotional in its telling of the meeting – in 1940s Cuba – of jazz pianist Chico (Ona) and the love of his life, the sexy and sultry singer Rita (Meneses), and their search for fame and fortune in the USA, a journey of turmoil and heartbreak.

The animation, colour and shade, cleverly allows the characters to come to life since the story is strongly character driven.

The film, too, rises above the story of the characters to that of the Cuba of the period and, with an excellent musical soundtrack, to the story of jazz.

An all-round gem.

Star Rating: 4/5