What makes Calle 54 great is precisely what's missing from the other. Trueba shows us the creative act of playing music, not just a bunch of famous folks performing.
– John Zebrowski,
Seattle Times,
11 May 2001
fresh:
Although it isn't the human-interest story that Buena Vista Social Club was, Fernando Trueba's Calle 54 is the next best thing to that milestone musical documentary.
– Jay Carr,
Boston Globe,
14 May 2001
fresh:
This is one fan's valentine to the music he loves. It just happens that the fan is a terrific filmmaker and the music loves him back.
– Fernando Gonzalez,
Washington Post,
11 Jun 2001
fresh:
Collectively, the numbers add up to a triumph of ecstatic mood swinging.
– Owen Gleiberman,
Entertainment Weekly,
28 Jun 2001
fresh:
As much a thrill to watch as it is to listen to, a rare combination for a concert film.