ALI’S STORY is playing at SBIFF (Santa Barbara International Film Festival), and I had the opportunity to see an early look. Here’s my spoiler-free take:
ALI’S STORY is a visual-musical dream that centers on Ali Coleman, a DJ I had never heard of but am quickly becoming a big fan of. While Ali’s story is captivating, it’s Benito Sinclair’s style that makes it a must-watch… or should I say listen(?). Sinclair uses interpretive dance, archival footage, interviews, audio, and more to make ALI’S STORY an exciting musical short.
The backstory of Ali Coleman and what he overcame to make it is worth going in without spoilers and discovering for yourself. However, what I can say is that his narrative is something I could see as a feature-length film. He’s charismatic, passionate, flawed, opinionated, and all of the things that make up a lead character in a docu-drama.
Final Thought: I’m thankful that Coleman shared his story, which was full of moments where his “great happeness came from great sadness.” It’s a gift to the audience’s ears.
ALI’S STORY premieres at SBIFF on Sat 2/7 – 4 PM
