Through its lyrical structure, Chavela takes viewers on an evocative, thought-provoking journey through the iconoclastic life of game-changing artist Chavela Vargas. Centered around never before-seen interview footage of Chavela shot 20 years before her death in 2012, and guided by the stories in Chavela’s songs, and the myths and tales others have told about her – as well as those she spread about herself – the film weaves an arresting portrait of a woman who dared to dress, speak, sing, and dream her unique life into being.

“This tuneful portrait of Chavela Vargas, “born singing” in 1919 Costa Rica, admiringly explores her impact on the world of Mexican music as an out lesbian … a charismatic figure and a great artist.” – Moira McDonald, Seattle Times

“Chavela is a vivid portrayal of an artistic, social and sexual rebel whose difficult but finally triumphant life finally proved that there sometimes really are second acts in showbiz lives.” – Jonathan Romney, Screen International