Lowdown Tracks
Catalogue Number: BF0010
Producer: Bishari Films
Producing Agencies: Bishari Film Productions
Subject: Documentary
Language: English
Grade Level: 9 - 12, Post Secondary
Country Of Origin: Canada
Copyright Year: 2015
Running Time: 86:00
Lowdown Tracks is a feature documentary that celebrates the music and stories of those living on the margins of Canadian society. Voted Hot Docs 2015 Best Canadian Feature Documentary, Lowdown Tracks has been identified as a highly effective call to action, addressing mental health stigma and issues of homelessness in Canada. The film’s main subjects are talented street musicians and the face of some of Canada’s most vulnerable individuals.
Lowdown Tracks was created in collaboration with Singer/Activist Lorraine Segato. The film features the song ‘Hole in the Wall’, a track from Lorraine Segato’s new CD, along with a soundtrack of music never heard or recorded before, from people who should be listened to.
From folk, punk hobo, Americana, and blues, their music resonates with hard times, eerily resembles past times, and throws a new perspective on our times.
As our homeless crisis grows, life on the margins threatens more and more people. The causes, from abuse to mental health to simple bad luck, are all touched on in the film. At its heart, Lowdown Tracks is about bringing into focus the heartache and the beautiful potential we should see when we walk by someone on the street. In the end, it is a celebration of the power of music and survival.
CHCH News/The Watchlist – Hot Docs Picks: Brigitte Top Ten Music Films to see at Hot Docs
“when they strap on their guitars — and this is the film’s genius — it’s possible to envision every one of them on a stage in front of hundreds of people. They’re that good.”— Hamilton Spectator
““inspiring ode to the power of music…heartbreaking….the talent is wondrous”— NOW Magazine NNNN
““the stories and songs (reveal that) the raw truth is powerful enough.”— Urban Toronto
““a moving music documentary”— Globe and Mail, 20 Films to See at Hot Docs
““inspiring”— Toronto Star, Linda Barnard on Lowdown Tracks coming second in Audience choice at Hot Docs
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