10 Tango Movies to watch this Christmas

Hey there fellow Tango Addicts, it's Christmas time!

If like me, you are spending your time eating and watching TV, why not watch a Tango movie together with family or friends?

Here's a curated list of must-watch tango movies and a couple that are not strictly Tango, but connected to it in one way or another. Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and enjoy!

1. Tango Baile Nuestro (1988)

IMDb Rating: 6.8

An absolute must watch if you dare to call yourself a Tango Addict. This documentary gives an impressionistic look at the tango in Argentina, mixing dance scenes with interviews, archival footage, and atmospheric fictional scenes. The narrative discusses tango's place in Argentine identity, its decline in the 1950s, attempts in the 1980s to revive it, differences between the tango in Argentina and in other countries, its healing properties, the distinctive roles of man and woman in the dance, and contrasts between professional and amateur styles.

My recommendation: Seriously, if you consider yourself a tango enthusiast, you need to watch it. It is a

The footage includes some of the century's best known dancers such as Gerardo Portalea, Miguel Ángel Zotto, Juan Carlos Copes as well as scenes from som of the most famous Milongas such as Sunderland Club. You can also catch a glimpse of Robert Duval!

Best thing is: the whole movie is available on YouTube!

2. Milongueros: El compás de Buenos Aires (2018)

This documentary film by Rika Fukuda invites you to a journey through the Golden Age of Argentine Tango in the 40s and 50s. You'll be guided by the voices of old milongueros who were born listening to tango, who learned to dance with friends and family to show off their moves in neighbourhood dance halls and sometimes even finding their partners for life. Through first person storytelling, and images from different milongas we set to know their origin, their dance styles, their rituals, their codes and the evolution of tango throughout the years.

My recommendation: This film seems to be a great addition to the Tango Baile Nuestro continuing the narrative of praising the Tango of the past. Funnily enough this is the next generation of milongueros repeating the same message - a recurring theme heard in the milongas. Still, it is a very valuable insight into the rituals and culture of tango. Features appearance by El Chino Perico and Raul Bravo among others.

It is available on demand here with English subtitles: https://hoy-milonga.com/buenos-aires/en/ps/preview/38

Trailer:

3. El exilio de Gardel - Tangos (1985)

Directed by Fernando Solanas, the film is a poetic exploration of the impact of political exile on the lives of Argentine artists during the military dictatorship. Named after the iconic tango singer Carlos Gardel, the narrative weaves together the stories of various characters, including musicians and dancers, as they navigate the challenges of displacement and the yearning for their homeland. Against the backdrop of vibrant tango performances and evocative music, "El exilio de Gardel - Tangos" captures the spirit of resilience and the profound connection between tango, identity, and the quest for freedom. Through its unique blend of music, dance, and political commentary, the film paints a poignant portrait of the human experience in the face of exile.

The movie is available on youtube and I will watch it this year :)

4. Tango (1998)

IMDb Rating: 6.9

Another masterpiece by director Carlos Saura seamlessly blends dance, music, and drama to create a cinematic masterpiece. Tango explores the lives of two men as they rehearse a tango performance, intertwining their personal stories with the rhythm of the dance.

Available on YouTube with English subtitles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUKhD94nEgU

5. Tango Bar (1987)

IMDb Rating: 7.2

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of Buenos Aires as Tango Bar takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the city's dance halls. A classic gem for tango enthusiasts, filled with captivating dance sequences and a gripping plot.

Available on YouTube with English subtitles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV8OgfXNP14

6. Our Last Tango / Un Tango Más (2015)

A documentary-style drama portraying the passionate love story between legendary tango dancers, María Nieves Rego and Juan Carlos Copes.

My recommendation: Beautifully filmed modern take on the most iconic tango couples of all times. It features amazing dancers we know these days such as : Juan Malizia, Pancho Martinez Pay, Alejandra Gutty among others and of course Maria Nieves and Juan Carlos themselves.

It's a great movie to watch with non-tango friends and family that would not bore them to death.

7. The Tango Lesson (1997)

IMDb Rating: 6.8

Directed by and starring Sally Potter, The Tango Lesson seamlessly blends fiction and reality, taking you on a breathtaking journey into the heart of tango. Includes mesmerising dance scenes and a poignant narrative.

My recommendation: While it is one of the classics, I'm not a big fan. Personally I found it rather boring.

There is a plethora of movies that include a more or less (usually less) well executed tango scenes, but I do not consider them as "tango movies" as such. Nevertheless, I'd still recommend the following two:

*And yes, I am omitting The Scent of a Woman on purpose.

8. Easy Virtue (2008)

IMDb Rating: 6.6

The story is set in the 1920s and revolves around a young Englishman (John). who impulsively marries an American race car driver (Larita). Upon their arrival in England, Larita finds herself facing the challenges of fitting into John's aristocratic and conservative family. The clash between tradition and modernity, coupled with unexpected twists and revelations, makes "Easy Virtue" a delightful and charming exploration of societal norms and the pursuit of happiness.

My recommendation: I enjoy this comedy because of its smart humour and the characters portrayed by Colin Firth and Jessica Biel. Their Tango scene marks the pinnacle of the drama and rebellion against the stale traditions and rules. It's a funny and smart movie to watch together with your non-tango friends and family.

9. Assassination Tango (2002)

IMDb Rating: 5.7

A 2002 crime thriller film directed by and starring Robert Duvall about a seasoned hitman who is assigned to carry out a contract killing in Argentina. A disciplined and skilled professional, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entranced by the sensuality and allure of the Argentine tango.

My recommendation: I enjoyed how Tango became a vehicle of self-discovery of the main character, as well as Duvall's nuanced performance and the atmospheric portrayal of Buenos Aires. Not to mention Duvall himself is a known for his love for Tango.

10. Argentina, 1985 (2022)

IMDb Rating: 7.6

While this is not a Tango movie and it doesn't even have a Tango scene in it, I decided to put it on the list as it gives an important insight into Argentina's history.

This movie is a the true story of how a public prosecutor, a young lawyer, and their inexperienced legal team dared to prosecute the heads of Argentina's bloody military dictatorship and share with the worls the stories of the "Disappeared".

It's available on Amazon Prime.

These recommended films are not just about dance; they are windows into the rich cultural tapestry and emotional depth that tango embodies. Whether you find yourself immersed in the nostalgia of "Tango Baile Nuestro" or captivated by the love story in "Our Last Tango," these movies are sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and passion that define the world of tango.

Happy watching, and may your Christmas be filled with the timeless magic of Argentine tango!