I can only echo what has been stated by majority of reviews here. This movie takes a warm and engaging look at the blues and roots music coming from Angola Prison Louisiana while balancing that with the reality of the men that live behind bars. We don't learn a lot about why the men are doing time, but this adds an ability to empathize without being pushed to judge those same men. The cinematography is beautifully shot and the action paced well, interspersing forward movement with history and biography. Nor does the film avoid the gritty and dismal living conditions at the prison. The music for the men in Angola becomes a much need cathartic and creative outlet. And the music itself is great. Regardless of your musical preferences it would be hard not to find sympathetic joy from seeing the performances. Chirarelli's performances are great and it's apparent from the start that she genuinely cares about the men she performs with. Overall, Music from the Big House is a great story with great music, what else could you want?
Review of Music from the Big House
