The Band's Visit – an Egyptian orchestra out of Alexandria is booked to headline the opening of a centre of culture somewhere in Israel. To the musicians’ horror, however, they are about to face a series of problems, starting right at the outset as there is literally nobody to greet and guide them at the airport upon arrival. Disoriented, confused, lost, and without any smattering of any of the local languages, they decide upon reaching their supposed destination on their own. Unsurprisingly, the orchestra members are soon sidetracked and find themselves roaming aimlessly somewhere in the provinces of Israel. They won’t be able to find a way out without the assistance of local residents whom they meet along the way.
In “The Band’s Visit” director Eran Kolirin creates a warm, wise and affectionate narrative about breaking down intercultural barriers and overcoming prejudices. He weaves his story not without a healthy dose of references to the spirit of Emir Kustirica’s films, reminding us that despite our different places of birth, diverse origins, and dispersed cultural roots we are all human beings, residents of the same (mother) planet, and that each of us is capable of overcoming any stereotype imaginable. “The Band’s Visit” takes you on a journey full of comedy, emotions, charm, and magnificent music.
„The Band’s Visit”
directed by Eran Kolirin, running time: 87’, 2007.
date: 12 February 2014, 7 pm
venue: Workshops of Culture (Warsztaty Kultury), 5a Grodzka Street, Lublin
Free admission