Argentine Tango and Robert Duvall

by Tango

Assassination Tango with Robert DuvallI came across a Parade magazine today and found a short piece there about Robert Duvall. In it he talks a bit about Argentine Tango, while promoting his new movie Get Low. Quite an astute comment about the walk (see below).

Everybody knows Robert Duvall, an Oscar winner, many times Oscar nominee, whose movies include To Kill a Mockingbird, Apocalypse Now, Tender Mercies (got him an Oscar), Godfather I and II, The Apostle, and many others in his 50+ years movie career, yet not many know about his passion, Argentine Tango.

In early 90s he saw a Broadway production of “Tango Argentino” and decided to visit Buenos Aires, Argentina. This show and trip started his new hobby, the hobby that has become a passion. It also led to another movie, Assassination Tango. I suggest to all my students to watch it, if not for the storyline, then for a nice introduction to the Tango scene in Buenos Aires. Although it was a pretty good move overall as well.

The interesting part is – Duvall’s girlfriend (now wife), who is Argentine and stars in the movie, not only had to learn English for her part, but also had to take Tango lessons to be able to dance Tango in the movie :)

Back to the Duvall’s Tango comment in the interview with Walter Scott that I liked. When asked if he (Duvall) still dances Argentine Tango, Duvall replied: Yes, sir. I practice the walk every day. You can learn a figure in five minutes, but it takes you 10 years to walk like an Argentine.

Such a true statement in a way that the essence of Tango is not in various figures we are accustomed seeing on TV and YouTube, but in how we move, how we walk. And no, it doesn’t have to take 10 years. With enough interest and determination combining group classes and private lessons, I can pretty much guarantee you will dance well much, much faster.

If you want to learn more about Tango in Atlanta, look around this site. Feel free to email or call me with any Tango related questions. I’ll happy to help…

Ilya

P.S. Duvall’s latest movie is Get Low. I haven’t seen it yet, but the plot sounds interesting. And you can always count on the quality acting. Nothing connected to Argentine Tango though :)

{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Rand Anderson December 27, 2010 at 11:10 pm

Saw a National Geographic special on tango featuring Robert Duvall. Has to be at least 10 years old. Could never find it any place. Do you know of it????

Ilya December 27, 2010 at 11:38 pm

Rand – wonder if this is the one?
http://www.natgeoeducationvideo.com/film/918/tango

Let me know if it is what you saw?

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