Genghis Blues
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71% Critic Match

Genghis Blues

The story of a blind blues musician's triumphant journey to the lost land of Tuva.

7.1 / 10 1999 1h 27mNR English
DocumentaryMusic

Storyline

Blind blues musician Paul Pena is perhaps best known for his song "Jet Airliner". In 1993, Pena heard Tuvan throat singing over his shortwave radio and subsequently taught himself how to reproduce these extraordinary sounds. This documentary follows him to Tuva, where he takes part in a throat singing competition. Languages featured in the film include English, Russian and Tuvan.

Cast & Crew

PP

Paul Pena

himself

Lead
KO

Kongar-ol Ondar

himself

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Roko Belic's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
4.0
Every frame feels alive. Genghis Blues is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker