Searching For Sugar Man

It's rare to find a documentary that puts your faith back in mankind whilst both warming and breaking your heart. However, like the protagonist, this film is a unique find. The documentary tells the story of Rodriguez: “one of the greatest '70s folk-rock musicians you've never heard.” Music experts hold Rodriguez's music in the same esteem as Bob Dylan and Neil Young. This may seem far-fetched but as the movie opens with one of Rodriguez's haunting songs, you too will be asking, “Why has no one heard of this guy?”

The film explores this premise while following two devoted fans from South Africa. While a relative unknown in his home country of the USA, Rodriguez was “bigger than Elvis” in Apartheid South Africa. The intrigue surrounding Rodriguez saw many of his fans believing he set fire to himself during a show, burning to death. The two fans go on a mission determined to uncover the truth behind their hero. Just when you think this story can't get any more incredible it will hook you in with more surprises. Be prepared to have your cynicism challenged. You'll leave with a desperate urge to seek out Rodriguez's albums.

Screening Sunday 25 November to Sunday 9 December, part of the Lottery West Film Festival, Somerville and Joonadlup Pines