Somos Calentura shows a different side of Columbia

by Kathia Woods

Somos Calentura

(We Are The Heat)

by Kathia Woods

Latin America hasn’t always done an excellent job of representation when it comes to Afro-Latinos.

Colombia whose two most notable celebrities are Shakira, and Sofia Vergara has the second largest Afro population in South America. So naturally when tourist travel to Colombia, they are somewhat surprised to notice that the average Colombian doesn't resemble those celebrities.

“Somos Calentura” is a film that helps chip away at the misrepresentation.

This movie tells the story of a group of Afros Colombian friends. Harvey and his three friends are trying to navigate through the everyday struggle of living in Buenaventura. They come from humble beginnings with not many options.

Music and dance provide an escape from the harsh reality of life. Dancing is a pivotal part of their escape.

Like so many before them, dance could provide a legal escape out of poverty. So when the opportunity presented itself to enter a dance contest with a sizable purse, the boys jump on it.

Director Jorge Navas does an excellent job of showing the struggles; however, it’s not what “Somos Calentura” primary focus is. Crime and poverty are a reality in Buena Ventura, but it’s not what defines this dance crew. They’re brothers, brothers that may argue but have each other’s back regardless of the situation.

Harvey portrayed by first-time actor Duván Arizala is the family man. He has a wife and young child to provide for, unlike his companions he doesn’t have the luxury to pursue dance for the sheer job. The stakes are higher for him. If this contest doesn’t work out, he’s relegated back to a life of meaningless jobs, for him this contest is a risky venture.

Not having to face the same challenges his friends don't understand his unwillingness to jump at the chance to enter the contest; hence the road to the championship hits a few snags.

This movie is entertaining and introduces us to some new and much-needed talent. I enjoyed the dance sequences in this film. You see the strong influence of “Hip-Hop” from the dances move to the colloquialisms; however, the music has elements of Salsa, Cumbia, and Chambeta to name a few.

It was smart casting on Navas to find dancers that can act. This way the dance sequence shots are authentic and vibrant.

There are many twists and turns to "Somos Calentura" sometimes the situation seems hopeless, but these young men are determined to overcome the odds. That's what has you rooting for them.

The take away from this film is that this community is more than the stereotypical elements blasted on the news. It's a community rich in culture and good people. It's time that we start focusing on the people and "Somos Calentura" does that.