The Return
The Return

The Return

2018Movie85 minDanish

Two Danish-Korean adoptees return for the first time to the country they of their birth. Confronted with the spirit of their Motherland and the personal stories of the fellow adoptees they meet in the city of Seoul, Karoline and Thomas are hurled into an emotionally disorienting journey that forces both of them to question and face their own destiny and identity.

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Insights

IMDb7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes99%
Metacritic87/100
Google Users95%
Director: Malik BendjelloulGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the mysterious life and career of Sixto Rodriguez, a forgotten American musician whose music became a massive phenomenon in South Africa during the apartheid era. Despite his immense popularity there, he remained virtually unknown in his home country. The film follows two fans who embark on a quest to discover what happened to their idol, leading them on a journey of revelation and rediscovery.

Critical Reception

"Searching for Sugar Man" (2012), which shares its subject, received widespread critical acclaim for its compelling narrative, emotional depth, and the inspiring story of Rodriguez. It was lauded for its masterful storytelling and the powerful impact of its subject's music and resilience. The film resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, becoming a critical and commercial success.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply moving and compelling documentary about a forgotten musical legend.
  • Masterfully crafted storytelling that keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end.
  • An inspiring testament to the power of music and the resilience of the human spirit.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praise "Searching for Sugar Man" for its fascinating and inspiring story about Sixto Rodriguez. Many highlight the emotional impact of his music and the incredible journey of discovery. The documentary is frequently described as heartwarming, captivating, and a must-watch.

Awards & Accolades

Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Documentary or Nonfiction Program.

Fun Fact

The filmmakers initially struggled to find anyone who knew what had happened to Sixto Rodriguez, and even Rodriguez himself was unaware of his fame in South Africa until contacted during the film's production.

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