Watch Zydeco

Zydeco is a 2012 musical-drama film that tells the story of a talented young woman named Natalie (played by Courtney Shay Young) who dreams of becoming a Zydeco dancer. Set in Louisiana, the film captures the essence of this unique music genre and its culture. Natalie is a hardworking and determined young woman who juggles several jobs to make ends meet. However, her passion lies in dancing Zydeco, a music style that blends elements of Creole, Cajun, and African American music. Natalie's mother, however, disapproves of her daughter's dream, believing that dancing Zydeco is a waste of time.

Despite her mother's objections, Natalie persists in pursuing her passion. She meets a kind-hearted musician named Taj (Elgin Foster), who sees her talent and becomes her mentor. Taj introduces her to the world of Zydeco music and helps her hone her skills.

Meanwhile, Natalie continues to face obstacles. Her mother's disapproval is one of them, but she also faces discrimination as a black woman in a predominantly white industry. She also encounters a rival dancer, Candy (LaTasha Williams), who is determined to undermine her success.

A pivotal moment in the film occurs when Natalie is invited to perform at the prestigious Zydeco Jamboree. This is a momentous event for her, and she pours her heart and soul into her performance. The scene is a highlight of the film, showcasing not only Young's talent as a dancer but also the infectious energy and joy of Zydeco music.

Throughout the film, the music is an integral part of the story. The upbeat rhythms of Zydeco create a sense of community and belonging, reflecting the culture and traditions of Louisiana. The film accurately portrays the ins and outs of the Zydeco music industry, including the struggles of musicians to make a living and the importance of preserving the traditions of the music.

The film also explores themes of family, tradition, and following one's dreams. Natalie's relationship with her mother is a central aspect of the story, with the two characters coming to a better understanding of each other by the end of the film. The importance of honoring one's heritage and traditions is also emphasized, as Natalie learns the history and meaning behind the music she loves.

The film features strong performances from its cast, particularly Young as Natalie. Her dancing is mesmerizing, and she brings a depth and authenticity to her portrayal of a young woman pursuing her dreams. Foster, as Taj, provides a wise and kind-hearted presence, while Williams is suitably menacing as Natalie's rival dancer.

In terms of its production values, Zydeco is a well-made film. The cinematography captures the beauty of Louisiana, from the swamps to the dance halls. The music is expertly integrated into the film, with performances that capture the energy and excitement of Zydeco.

Overall, Zydeco is a heartfelt, engaging film that pays tribute to a unique music genre and the culture that surrounds it. It tells a universal story of following one's dreams and the challenges that come with pursuing them. With its excellent performances, energetic music, and strong themes, Zydeco is a film that will appeal to a wide audience.

Zydeco is a 1984 horror movie with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.