Opened: February 28, 1992

Directed by: Arne Gilmcher

Starring: Armand Assante, Antonio Banderas, Cathy Moriarty, Maruschka Detmers, Desi Arnaz Jr., Roscoe Lee Browne, Talisa Soto, Vondie Curtis-Hall, Cordelia Gonzales, Tito Puente, Helena Carroll & Celia Cruz

The Mambo Kings may be a textbook story that Hollywood’s produced from its earliest days, the energy and music brought to it makes you forget that.

Cesar (Armand Assante) and Nestor Castillo (Antonio Banderas) flee from Cuba to the U.S. where Cesar hopes to make it as a musician. Nestor is heartbroken over former love Maria (Talisa Soto) and writes a song about her that help the brothers gain attention.

In his first English-language film, Banderas brings an innocence to Nestor even when he’s making bad decisions. Assante might bring a little too much cockiness to Cesar, but it evens out alongside Nestor.

While the story isn’t inventive, it’s touching. The music in the clubs will keep your energy high and Assante and Banderas’ voices sound wonderful together.

Final say: Once you wipe away the tears, you’ll want to dance. ★★★★☆