Mahaleo

The documentary tells the stories of the seven members of Mahaleo, a popular band in Madagascar. Together they write songs about lifes important themes, such as friendship, love, birth and death. They draw on current events in Madagascar for inspiration, including poverty, health care issues and economic and political developments. The music is both cheerful and sentimental and the band has devoted fans of all ages in Madagascar. The documentary features images of daily life in Madagascar to the tune of Mahaleo’s music. The individual members of the band, including a doctor, a sociologist and a politician, are also prominent members of the community.

Social Interest

The hardships of daily life in Madagascar are a main element of the film. Most people live off the land. One of the members of Mahaleo works for an NGO and teaches farmers in the villages how to plant crops more efficiently. Mahaleo’s music seems to be a source of support for the people. The documentary also features images from a live concert, with the fans in the audience singing along to every song.

Historic Relevance

The island of Madagascars turbulent history is one of the sources of inspiration for Mahaleos lyrics. The documentary starts with one of the bands songs, while various images of significant events are shown, such as the rise of democratic socialism and ecological humanism, as well as the demonstrations against political events. The band was formed after the fall of the neo-colonial government, when the members were still university students. Since then, their music has become an inextricable part of Madagasy life.

Scenes

Political history of Madagascar and music by Mahaleo
This clip in the beginning of the documentary shows footage of the politics of Madagascar from the independence in 1960 to the 21st century. During the clip a song by the music group Mahaleo is being played.
Musicians of the band Mahaleo in Madagascar writing music
The men of the music band Mahaleo from Madagascar come together to make and play new songs. They discuss the lyrics and refer to political events in Madagascar.
Speech by Ravalomanana, presidential candidate of Madagascar and Mahaleo music
In Madagascar, the presidential candidate and later on president Marc Ravalomanana speaks to a crowd of supporters. The music band Mahaleo plays political songs to accompany the speech of the politician.
Mahaleo and political position in Madagascar
The members of the music band Mahaleo discuss the position of themselves and their music when it comes to politics in Madagascar. They also talk about the future of their group and their individual plans.