Searching for Sugar Man

Folk rock musician Rodriguez was discovered in Detroit bar in the late sixties by two producers who were certain that he was a star in the making and would have no trouble selling hit records within months. However, his first album 'Cold Fact' failed to make an impression in the US and he appeared to vanish without a trace. Little did he know that he was becoming a national treasure in South Africa during the time of the apartheid, his inspiring, anti-establishment album reaching platinum status; many considered his record to be one of the most famous records of all time. Rodriguez disappearance sparked a rumour of a grisly suicide on stage of which there are many variations.

This documentary details the search for the 'Sugar Man' musician by two South African fans who are eager to find out what really happened to their cultural icon; a search that leads them to discover a potential breakthrough clue in the lyrics of one of his songs. Produced by Academy Award winner Simon Chinn ('Man on Wire', 'Project Nim'), this inspiring tale shows the significance of music, particularly in terms of politics, and the effect it can have on people despite Rodriguez's unawareness. Already the winner of awards at the Sundance Film Festival, this gripping movie will hit UK cinemas on the 27th July 2012.

Directed by: Malik Bendjelloul