Are you a music enthusiast looking for compelling stories about sound, expression, and artistry? While Salem Film Fest 2025 is primarily known for its thought-provoking documentaries, several films in this year’s lineup will strike a chord with music lovers. From classical compositions to revolutionary radio, here’s your curated guide to the most music-centric offerings at this year’s festival. Purchase film fest tickets here.
Must-See Music Documentaries
CONCERTO FOR OTHER HANDS
Saturday, March 29th, 12:45 PM @ National Park Visitor Center
Filmmaker attending with live Q&A!
This touching Mexican documentary follows David, a young man who dreams of becoming a pianist like his father, José Luis. This story is extraordinary because David must navigate physical challenges to pursue his passion for music. The film offers an intimate look at perseverance, familial musical legacy, and the transformative power of classical music. A perfect choice for classical music aficionados and anyone interested in stories of artistic determination.
SONGS FROM THE HOLE
Friday, March 28th, 6:35 PM @ Cinema Salem
Filmmaker attending with live Q&A!
Music as a means of survival and expression is powerfully portrayed in this documentary featuring incarcerated musician James “JJ’88” Jacobs. Through narration and lyrical journal entries, JJ’88 reveals his innermost struggles while showcasing how music serves as both emotional release and creative outlet in the most challenging environments. This film examines how music can become a lifeline and form of personal reckoning.
MUTE UTOPIA
Sunday, March 30th, 12:00 PM @ Peabody Essex Museum
(Short film, preceding BALOMANIA)
This Brazilian short explores the struggle to democratize media through the history of Radio Muda, an independent radio station. For music lovers interested in how underground radio shapes musical landscapes and cultural movements, this 20-minute documentary offers fascinating insights into broadcast activism and the fight for diverse voices in media that directly impacts musical diversity and discovery.
SONGS OF SLOW BURNING EARTH
Saturday, March 29th, 10:15 AM @ Cinema Salem
This poetic audiovisual diary captures Ukraine during the first two years of Russia’s full invasion. While not exclusively about music, the film’s very title suggests its focus on the “songs” – both literal and metaphorical – that emerge during crisis. The documentary uses sound design and occasional music to create a powerful sensory experience that reflects how art and sound continue even in the most devastating circumstances.
Films with Notable Musical Elements
ASSEMBLY
Sunday, March 30th, 5:40 PM @ Cinema Salem
Closing Night Film
Following internationally acclaimed artist Rashaad Newsome as he creates a multimedia exhibition at New York’s historic Park Avenue Armory, this documentary showcases the intersection of visual art, performance, and sound. While not exclusively music-focused, ASSEMBLY demonstrates how contemporary artists integrate musical elements into broader artistic expressions, making it appealing to those interested in interdisciplinary art.
SABBATH QUEEN
Saturday, March 29th, 9:10 PM @ Cinema Salem
Filmed over 21 years, SABBATH QUEEN follows Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie’s epic journey as the dynastic heir of 38 generations of Orthodox rabbis, including the Chief Rabbis of Israel. He is torn between rejecting and embracing his destiny and becomes a drag-queen rebel, a queer bio-dad, and the founder of Lab/Shul: an everybody-friendly, God-optional, artist-driven, pop-up experimental congregation.
Festival Events
Don’t miss these festival events where you might connect with filmmakers and fellow music enthusiasts:
- Filmmaker Happy Hour: Friday, March 28th, 4:00 PM @ East Regiment Beer Co.
- SFF Social at Sea Level: Friday, March 28th, 9:00 PM @ Sea Level Oyster Bar
- SFF Soiree at Colonial Hall: Saturday, March 29th, 9:00 PM @ Colonial Hall at Rockafellas
- Closing Night Wrap Party: Sunday, March 30th, 7:30 PM @ The Counter at Hotel Salem
Practical Tips for Music-Loving Festival-Goers
- Arrive Early: Especially for films like CONCERTO FOR OTHER HANDS and SONGS FROM THE HOLE, which are likely to draw music enthusiasts.
- Stay for Q&As: Many of the music-themed films feature filmmaker Q&As where you can ask about musical choices, sound design, and the stories behind the scores.
- Connect with Fellow Enthusiasts: The festival events provide excellent opportunities to discuss music documentaries with like-minded attendees.
- Ticket Information: Individual tickets are $16, but consider a 5-ticket pack ($75) or 10-ticket pack ($145) for better value if you plan to catch multiple screenings.
Final Notes
Salem Film Fest‘s 2025 selection offers a diverse range of music-related documentaries that explore how music intersects with identity, struggle, cultural movements, and personal expression. While music may not be the festival’s primary focus, these carefully selected films explore sound and its impact on the human experience.
Whether you’re interested in classical piano, incarcerated musicians finding their voice, or the fight for democratic access to radio waves, this year’s festival has something to offer every music lover looking for stories that resonate beyond the final note.
Salem Film Fest runs March 27-30, 2025. For complete festival information, schedule updates, and to purchase tickets, visit www.salemfilmfest.com.
