Rise Up (2008)

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More records are released per capita in Jamaica than any other nation in the world; despite a long history of poverty, political instability and crime, the island's music scene has had a powerful global impact, and many Jamaicans see music as their best opportunity to make something of… More More records are released per capita in Jamaica than any other nation in the world; despite a long history of poverty, political instability and crime, the island's music scene has had a powerful global impact, and many Jamaicans see music as their best opportunity to make something of themselves. Documentary filmmaker Luciano Blotta takes a look at three artists struggling to make themselves heard in a small country overflowing with talent in the documentary Riseup. Turbulence is a Rastafarian dancehall toaster whose lyrical skills, charisma and exceptional voice have made him an underground star in Kingston. But to break out to a larger market Turbulence needs to affiliate himself with some of major players in the music business, and he makes no secret of his distrust of agents and managers. Kemoy came from a tiny village in the country, but has a powerful, soulful vocal style and has won the support of several reggae legends, including Sly Dunbar and Toots Hibbert. But Kemoy still has to face the harsh realities of life in the ghetto, as well as dealing with an unexpected pregnancy that could stall her career. And Anastasia Ice is an aspiring rapper who comes from a wealthy family; his parents are willing to bankroll his musical career, and he's able to hire a top-notch band and use his influence to get on the bill of the island's biggest music festival, Sunsplash. But can money buy him the audience's attention? Riseup was an official selection at the 2009 Hot Docs International Film Festival. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi