
Release Year:
2025
Category:
movie
Genre:
Documentary
Ugly Little Monkeys is a compelling documentary that brings to life the remarkable journey of Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson, the pioneering youth mariachi group in the United States. Inspired by Wilfred Arvizu's captivating book, this film delves into the heart of Tucson, Arizona, where the band was formed in the 1960s under the guidance of an unlikely mentor, Father Charles Rourke, an Irish priest with a deep passion for mariachi music. The documentary traces the origins of Los Changuitos Feos, from their humble beginnings to their rise to fame. Viewers are taken on an emotional and inspiring journey, showcasing archival footage, personal interviews, and heartwarming anecdotes from the original members of Los Changuitos Feos. The film highlights the challenges they faced, including societal prejudices and financial obstacles, and how they overcame these barriers to become a symbol of cultural pride and unity. Ugly Little Monkeys celebrates the transformative power of music and community, illustrating how the talent of these young musicians left an indelible mark on American cultural history. This documentary is a tribute to their legacy, showing how a group of determined youth, not only preserved their cultural roots but also paved the way for future generations of mariachi artists in the United States.